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The former Manchester United star disclosed that he ordered the removal of a British flag from one of his property development locations because it was being "displayed in a harmful way," as he encouraged his audience to question what it means to be patriotic.

A Social Media Post

In a online message published at the end of the week, the ex-player turned businessman said he believed that "society is being turned against itself," laying a great deal of the fault for the division on "irate white men of a certain age … who know exactly what they’re doing|who are fully aware of their actions|who understand the consequences of their behavior}."

Contrasting Streets

He described driving down a street in the neighborhood, and seeing "probably 50-60 union jack flags" on that section of the road. He then compared that with his trip home through the neighboring street, Bury New Road, where the Jewish populace were "out in the streets, defiant, not hiding or in fear."

A Decisive Move

Neville, who has built a significant real estate business in Manchester since leaving professional football in 2011, said he took down a British flag being flown on a development property.

"Interestingly on one of my construction sites last week there was a union jack flag put up and I took it down instantly," he said.

Defining National Pride

"Certain viewers may be thinking and thinking: 'Gary, you lack patriotism.' I earned 85 caps for England, I have great affection for England, I am devoted to Manchester and I love England," he affirmed.

Neville, 50, said that in the years he has been building in the city, he had not observed Union Jacks at the present frequency and pondered the reason for this increase.

"The British flag used in a negative fashion is improper and I’m a proud supporter of England, of Britain, of our country and will champion it anywhere as one of the greatest places to live," he proclaimed.

An Appeal for Self-Assessment

"Yet, I feel it is crucial we reflect," he went on, "check ourselves and start to think about returning to a balanced position because we are being tugged in opposing directions and there is no need for such polarization."

Broader Commentary

The sports analyst has frequently voiced his opinions on current affairs and social topics, for instance urging the public to "abhor" the poor working conditions for foreign workers in Qatar and NHS staff in the UK.

Togetherness Through Sport

In his online presentation, Neville discussed the diversity of football, saying that he shared the pitch with individuals from throughout the nation and from around the world. "We formed a wonderful team, completely unified," he noted.

On Brexit and Division

He said he held Brexit responsible for its "harmful impact" on the country, and said the "rhetoric" of discord was becoming "extremely dangerous."

"Such irresponsible people that are disseminating offensive rhetoric in every form and mistreatment in all its forms, it is vital we no longer amplify them," he declared.

"We should cease directing attention to them and this must end immediately and restore a land of affection, of tranquility, of harmony and unite as one once more."