Reggae Boyz forward Junior Flemmings has signed a one-year deal with Birmingham Legion FC in the United Soccer League in the United States.
However, Flemmings, the USL’s 2020 Golden Boot winner, will miss the first two games of the 2021 season as he completes his USL-imposed six-game suspension at the end of last season.
Flemmings, then playing for Phoenix Rising FC, was banned for six games for using foul and abusive language in the form of a homophobic slur directed at a San Diego Loyal player Colin Martin on September 30.
The 24-year-old Jamaican has apologized for his actions.
“I am very sorry about the incident with Collin Martin,” said Flemmings in a statement released by his new club.
“I understand the impact words have, and I will work hard to improve my on-field demeanour even in the heat of battle. I am grateful for this opportunity as I believe Birmingham is a great place for me to grow both on and off the field.”
In accepting Flemmings’ apology Martin said the matter is now behind them.
“Personally, I didn’t want Junior’s career to end, but more importantly that we learn as players and as a society to be respectful of our differences. I’m optimistic that we will be better because of this and that Junior will help advocate for respect within our game. I wish Junior continued success at Legion FC,” Martin said in a statement released by Birmingham.
The mending of the fences was crucial to Birmingham’s decision to sign Flemmings to the deal with a club option for a second season.
Club president Jay Heaps revealed to AL.com that the club had had extensive conversations with Flemmings and his former coaches and teammates to better understand his character on and off the field.
“In addition, we spoke with Collin Martin and Landon Donovan to get their perspective on Legion FC giving Junior this opportunity,” he said.
“Lastly, we needed to look inward and make sure Legion FC has the appropriate structure in place to help our players as people, teammates, athletes and accepting members of the community.”