Manchester United midfielder Jack Fletcher has been handed a six-match suspension after admitting he used a homophobic slur during a Carabao Cup defeat to Barnsley in October.

Jack Fletcher, an 18-year-old England Under-19 international and son of former United captain Darren Fletcher, was shown a straight red card in the 62nd minute of the 5-2 loss. At the time, the reason for his dismissal was unclear.

The Football Association has now confirmed Fletcher was sent off for calling an opponent “gay boy”.

“I am truly sorry for the offensive word I used in the heat of the moment,” said Fletcher.

“I completely understand that such language is unacceptable and immediately apologised after the game.”

Fletcher added that the incident was a “momentary lapse of character, absolutely does not reflect my beliefs or values”.

He insisted he “had no intention to use the term as a homophobic insult”, a position accepted by the independent regulatory commission. However, the panel ruled the language warranted a six-match ban. The punishment has been accepted by both player and club.

Fletcher has also been fined £1,500 and ordered to complete a mandatory face-to-face education programme. Failure to do so will trigger a further suspension.

In its written reasons, the FA said the comment was directed at an opponent who had made remarks about Fletcher and his family throughout the match. Fletcher told the hearing he had earlier been thrown to the floor and had his Achilles stamped on by the same player.

His twin brother, Tyler, featured in the match, while his father watched from the stands.

Fletcher made his Premier League debut against Aston Villa in December and has since made three senior appearances for United.

United said they have been working with the midfielder to “strengthen his understanding of discriminatory language and why it is harmful”. The club confirmed he will continue participating in internal diversity programmes alongside the FA’s mandatory training.