A Germany international has apologised amid reports that he made a homophobic remark.
Kevin Behrens, 33, is currently contracted to Bundesliga side Wolfsburg, having signed for them in the summer.
He joined the club after a successful spell at Union Berlin, during which time he featured in the Champions League.
In 2023, he received his debut - and thus far only - cap for the Germany national team.
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He debuted against the former on October 18, coming on as a substitute at the 87th minute for Jamal Musiala which ended in a 2-2 draw.
This season, Behrens is yet to score from his five appearances in the Bundesliga.
German outlet BILD have now reported that the forward has been accused of making a homophobic remark at a Wolfsburg team event earlier this year.
It is claimed that the club invited several players, including Behrens, to a signing session in the last week of September.
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The session involved signing objects that could then be either sold, included in competitions or used for charity events.
It is alleged that Behrens was asked to sign a 'rainbow' shirt, in which the logos and sponsors are presented in rainbow colours, with the club wanting to use it to 'set an example for diversity and tolerance'.
However, the forward is said to have refused to sign it on several occasions, telling the club: "I won't sign that kind of gay s**t."
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He later did sign the shirt.
Behrens has since apologised over the remark, telling BILD: "My spontaneous comments were absolutely not okay.
"I would like to apologise for that. The topic was clearly discussed internally and I ask for your understanding that I do not wish to comment further on it."
While it was initially unclear whether he received any internal sanction for the remark, BILD report that Behrens was summoned to an internal meeting, where he is said to have told sporting director Sebastian Schindzielorz that he had 'no aversion to homosexuals'.
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Schindzielorz has told Sky Germany that Behrens is suspended.
He said: "Homophobia has no place with us. Kevin is now home alone."
SPORTbible have contacted VfL Wolfsburg and the player's agent for comment.
Topics: Germany, Wolfsburg, Football, Bundesliga
Ryan Smart