Former Aston Villa midfielder Thomas Hitzlsperger has come out with an astonishing revelation that he is gay. He recently finished his playing career after representing popular clubs like Aston Villa and West Ham. He has also made numerous appearances for the German national team as well. Hitzlsperger has revealed that he has so far not disclosed his sexual orientation because of the fear of being punished by FIFA. He has received support from several players across the world. He is one of the very few to have come out openly about his homosexuality.

Lukas Podolski, who is his former international colleague, is one of the several to come out in support of Hitzlsperger. He has stated that it is a brave decision by the 31-year-old, who retired in September of last year after his spell with Everton. Injuries of persistent magnitude forced him to announce the decision. He is best known for his five years at Stuttgart where he made more than 125 appearances. Justin Fashanu and Robbie Rogers are some of the players who have come out in the open about their sexuality.

Podolski, who recently returned from a long injury layoff, says that it is a brave decision by his international colleague and one that should be respected.

“Brave and right decision. Respect, Thomas Hitzlsperger. His outing is a important sign in our time,” said Arsenal striker in his tweet.

“Thomas Hitzlsperger has shown a lot of courage today. Sad times when people have to wait till they retire from their chosen profession. Before they feel other people will judge them solely on who the human being is. Shame on all of us as a society,” said QPR midfielder Joey Barton in his tweet. Many other players have come out in support of Hitzlsperger after his revelation in a German daily.