Christian footballer Felix Nmecha has declared his message of "love and respect for everyone" as he faces criticism from football fans for his displays of faith during matches.
Nmecha and his faith were at the centre of controversy and criticism after he celebrated scoring for Borussia Dortmund in their 2-1 Bundesliga victory over Elversberg on Saturday 7 November.
He scored both of his team's goals to win the game, and in front of the packed Südtribune stand with 24,000 watching, he mimed taking a crown off his head and placing it on the floor.
The celebration is part of "The King's Return" movement started by social media evangelical sports page Ballers in God.
A supporters group claimed that the club take steps to avoid discrimination and wants action to avoid displays of faith "denying people equality" and promoting "intolerance".
The supporters group statement said: “Footballers are role models for millions of people, especially children and young people. If this reach conveys content that excludes certain groups in society, we cannot dismiss this as merely private religious practice. Where religious beliefs are used to deny people their dignity or equality, our tolerance for intolerance ends."
It is understood that the German FA will speak to the international player who celebrated in a similar fashion during the World Cup for Germany.
Nmecha responded to calls for him to be quiet about his faith by explaining the symbolism of his crown celebration.
Nmecha said: "It has been brought to my attention that my recent goal celebration has led to some misunderstandings.
"My celebration is not intended to promote myself or any organisation. Rather, it is about laying my "crown" before the soon coming King and pointing to Jesus, my hope and strength.
"My message has never been about promoting intolerance, discrimination, or hate in any form.
"As Christians, our message is one of love and respect for everyone, regardless of where they come from, what they believe, or what their worldview may be."
He ended the statement on his Instagram story with John 3:16.
Nmecha previously posted and then deleted a tribute to Charlie Kirk after his assassination, saying that the Turning Point USA founder "peacefully stood up for his beliefs and values".
German public broadcaster ARD linked Ballers in God (BIG) to ultra-conservative positions on issues such as homosexuality and transgenderism.
The Christian group released a statement which expressed their desire for the power of Jesus to be spread through sport.
It read: "Ballers in God exists to support professional players and pro football families in their faith journeys and make Jesus known in and through the beautiful game.
"At the heart of our community is the belief that Jesus Christ is King and that he is the hope of the world. We believe the hope found in Him is for everyone, and our desire is to share this message by making Him known.
"We celebrate players who live out their faith privately, as well as those who choose to express it publicly. We are encouraged by player-led movements such as The King's Return, where footballers themselves take the initiative to express their faith in Jesus.
"Our heart is to support and celebrate their witness and believe everyone should be free to express their faith respectfully, without fear of prejudice or exclusion.
"Our desire is not only to share our hope, but to demonstrate love and respect towards everyone, including those who do not share our beliefs.
"Our focus has always been, and will always be, to point people to Jesus with grace and love."
Research earlier this year found that three in four English football clubs have Christian players - called a "sea change" for faith in the sport.