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Gary Neville explained that he personally removed a Union Jack from one of his property development locations because it was being "employed in a divisive manner," as he called on people to think deeply about what it signifies to be patriotic.

A Social Media Post

In a social media video shared Friday, the ex-player turned businessman said he believed that "people are being pitted against one another," attributing much of the blame for the division on "frustrated, middle-aged white males … who know exactly what they’re doing|who are fully aware of their actions|who understand the consequences of their behavior}."

A Tale of Two Roads

He described driving down a street in the neighborhood, and seeing "dozens of British flags" on that part of his route. He then compared that with his journey back through the adjacent avenue, a different main road, where the local Jewish residents were "out in the streets, defiant, not hiding or in fear."

Flag Removal

The pundit, who has developed a significant real estate business in Manchester since retiring from football in 2011, said he had removed a union flag being displayed on one of his building sites.

"Interestingly on one of my property projects last week there was a Union Jack displayed and I had it removed immediately," he said.

Thoughts on Loving One's Country

"Certain viewers may be thinking and thinking: 'Neville, you don't love your country.' I’ve played for my country 85 times, I have great affection for England, I am devoted to Manchester and I cherish England," he stated.

Neville, 50, said that in the time he has been developing in the city, he had not witnessed British flags at the existing level and asked why this was happening.

"The British flag used in a negative fashion is not right and I am a staunch supporter of England, of Britain, of our country and will champion it anywhere as a top-tier location for life," he stated.

An Appeal for Self-Assessment

"Yet, I feel it is crucial we reflect," he added, "assess our actions and contemplate about bringing ourselves back to a neutral point because we’re being pulled right and left and there is no need for such polarization."

Broader Commentary

The sports analyst has repeatedly expressed his thoughts on political and social issues, such as stating people should "despise" the poor working conditions for foreign workers in Qatar and NHS staff in the UK.

Diversity in Sports

In his LinkedIn video, Neville reflected on the variety within the sport, saying that he shared the pitch with individuals from throughout the nation and from internationally. "It was a magnificent squad, totally together," he recalled.

The Effects of Leaving the EU

He said he held Brexit responsible for its "damaging consequences" on the country, and said the "rhetoric" of division was becoming "extremely dangerous."

"All these idiots that are disseminating offensive rhetoric in any form and hostility in any manifestation, it is vital we no longer amplify them," he emphasized.

"We should cease directing attention to them and this must end immediately and return to a nation of love, of tranquility, of harmony and function as a cohesive unit again."