Yeovil Town Owner Sparks Outrage by Unretiring Number 4 Shirt

Yeovil, UK – Yeovil Town Football Club's owner, Martin Hellier, has ignited a wave of controversy and anger among the club's fan base by unretiring the number 4 shirt, which had been previously retired in honor of the late club captain Lee Collins. Collins tragically passed away by suicide in March 2021, and the number 4 shirt was retired as a mark of respect to his memory.

The decision to bring the number back into circulation has been met with widespread condemnation from Yeovil supporters, who took to social media to express their dismay and frustration. Many fans view the shirt's unretirement as a sign of disrespect to Collins' legacy and to those still grieving his loss.

Hellier's response to the backlash further fueled the outrage. In a series of social media posts, he dismissed the complaints, telling fans to "move on." This dismissive attitude has not sat well with the supporters, who have called for more sensitivity and respect towards the memory of Collins.

"Lee Collins was not just a player; he was a beloved captain and a symbol of our club's spirit," said one long-time Yeovil supporter. "Unretiring his shirt so soon is a slap in the face to his memory and to the fans who still mourn his loss."

The controversy has cast a shadow over the club, which has already been facing challenges on and off the pitch. Calls for Hellier to reconsider his decision and to issue a formal apology have been mounting. However, as of now, Hellier has shown no indication of reversing his stance.

Fans are understood to be making an organized protest demanding that the number 4 shirt remain retired in honor of Collins. 

Yeovil Town FC has yet to release an official statement addressing the situation, but the club's supporters are hoping for a resolution that honors Collins' memory appropriately although Hellier has clearly stated in the past it's HIS club and that goes.

As the situation develops, the club's management will need to navigate the delicate balance between respecting the wishes of the fans and the legacy of their former captain while managing the broader implications for the team's future.