Two Premier League players, including one England international, will reportedly come out as gay in the near future.
The unnamed footballers are believed to be close to becoming the first in the English top flight to reveal their homosexuality after privately telling their families and clubs.
According to The Telegraph, they have received support from the Football Association and are being advised by the Professional Footballers' Association.
PFA chief executive Gordon Taylor told the paper: "They have their confidentiality, which must be respected until they choose otherwise.
"Equality is at the forefront of our agenda and, as their union, we will expect they are treated with the respect they deserve for their decision to come out.
"We hope the football community including media and fans can set an example that others will follow. The game should be ready now to accept this."
Last year, ex-Aston Villa and Everton midfielder Thomas Hitzlsperger became the first former Premier League player to come out, after ex-Leeds United and USA international player Robbie Rogers in 2013.
