England star Itoje hits out at Manchester United owner Ratcliffe’s “wrong” remarks

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Ratcliffe — who holds a minority stake in United through petrochemicals giant Ineos — told Sky News this week that Britain had been “colonised by immigrants” and suggested Prime Minister Keir Starmer was “too nice” to make tough economic decisions.

The remarks drew fierce criticism from supporters’ groups and politicians alike, with Starmer branding the language “offensive and wrong”.

Itoje, speaking publicly on the row, left no room for doubt about where he stands.

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“I disagree with the terminology and the sentiments of what he said. I do not believe Great Britain has been colonised by immigrants,” he said.

“I think that’s an inaccurate, wrong thing to say.”

The England star did, however, acknowledge Ratcliffe’s apology, after the billionaire said he was sorry his “choice of language has offended some people”.

“I have read that he has apologised for his comments. I think it’s admirable when people realise they have messed up, so I commend him for that,” Itoje added.

“But I obviously do not condone the sentiments or the message behind those words.”

Ratcliffe has since insisted he was attempting to spark debate around “controlled and well-managed immigration” — but the backlash shows little sign of fading.

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