Everton condemn homophobic chant targeting Chelsea player on trip to Stamford Bridge

New wave of homophobia in the English stands. In the Premier League match between Chelsea and Everton on Thursday (December 16th), Toffees supporters sang a homophobic chant, “Chelsea Rent Boys” (which means “Chelsea’s young prostitutes – literally boys for hire”).

The Chelsea district, located in South London, is historically associated with LGBT people and known for the presence of male prostitutes on its streets. The expression “Rent Boys” was used in the 1970s to designate the young prostitutes of this district, mainly poor. The song “Rent Boys” insinuates that Chelsea players (and the club’s male supporters) are selling cheap to have sex with other men, effectively criticizing homosexuality.

In a statement, Everton said “condemn this unacceptable behavior, which does not represent the values ​​of our club or of a wider fan base”. The club wished to recall its commitment to the promotion of diversity and inclusion – a work which was also recognized in November with a prize. “We expect fans to reflect these values ​​by refraining from any discriminatory vocals in the future.”, concluded the management.

We’ve been informed of the ‘Chelsea Rent Boy’ chants. This is something we totally condemn. It’s wrong, it’s homophobic & needs to stop. We have brought this up with the club in the past & will be bringing it up again. @ChelseaPride_ @ Everton41028332 @FvHtweets

– Rainbow Toffees (@RainbowToffees) December 16, 2021

Everton’s LGBT + fan group also condemned the chants. “It’s wrong, it’s homophobic and must stop “, he said on social networks. We have raised this subject with the club in the past and we will do it again. ”

Thursday’s meeting at Stamford Bridge ended in a draw (1-1), Chelsea therefore saw Manchester City and Liverpool take off, with respectively four and three points ahead of the Blues.