The 32-year-old says his decision to share his story - described as "an important moment" for the sport by the Football Association's Head of Senior Referee Development, Neale Barry - has been prompted by the recent strengthening of commitments made by the game's governing bodies to lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) inclusion.

 

The FA, the Premier League and the EFL are among the organisations supporting Stonewall's Rainbow Laces campaign, which is raising awareness across sport of anti-LGBT language and behaviour that makes gay, bi and trans people feel unwelcome and unsafe.

Atkin believes being open about his own sexuality will help to demonstrate the campaign's impact in football, saying to all involved in the game: "Be who you want to be, and accept someone for who they are."

 

Having a referee encourage authenticity and acceptance in such a way sends "a hugely powerful message", says Mike Riley, the managing director of Professional Game Match Officials Ltd, the organisation that oversees officiating in the Premier League, EFL and FA competitions.