Ryan Atkin, first openly gay referee in English professional football, hopes that his decision to publicly disclose his condition will help combat homophobia in the beautiful game.

Atkin broke a taboo on Thursday by speaking publicly about his sexuality and the way the sports world reacts to homosexuality.

"Being gay has no bearing when it comes to refereeing a football match," he declared in an interview with Sky Sports.

"But if I talk about equality and diversity, I am going to mention that I am gay because it is relevant," he added.

"Homophobia is always a problem. Although things are improving every day. We can change the game and the culture if we change minds," he continued.

Atkin, 32, began refereeing in 1999 and supports the 'Rainbow Laces' campaign, launched by Stonewall, an association defending gays, lesbians, and transgender people, supported by the Football Association (FA) and the Premier League.

This campaign seeks to raise awareness among the public with language that is opposed to homophobia in football and discriminatory behavior.

Atkin hopes that revealing his sexual orientation will show others the way forward in football.

"Clearly it is a leap into the unknown. In English professional football, we know very well that there has never been an openly gay person and there has never been one among the referees," he emphasized.

"People who are comfortable in their own skin are more effective. The same goes for professional sports," he continued.

Neale Barry, the head of referees at the FA, welcomed Atkin's decision to publicly disclose his sexual orientation.

"The FA fully supports Ryan. Our role is to support all referees, help them develop, maximize their potential, but above all, help them have positive experiences," he said.

This season, Atkin will serve as the fourth official in Premier League matches and the main referee in lower levels.