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Gary Neville explained that he had taken down a union flag from one of his construction sites in Manchester because it was being "used in a negative fashion," as he urged his followers to reconsider the definition to be a proud citizen.

A Social Media Post

In a video posted on Friday, the ex-player turned businessman said he believed that "we’re all being turned on each other," laying a great deal of the fault for the divide 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}."

A Tale of Two Roads

He recounted traveling along a street in the neighborhood, and seeing "probably 50-60 union jack flags" on that part of his route. He then juxtaposed this against his journey back through the parallel road, the other thoroughfare, where the Jewish populace were "visible outdoors, standing strong, unafraid."

A Decisive Move

The pundit, who has developed a vast property empire in Manchester since ending his playing career in 2011, said he had removed a union flag being displayed on one of his building sites.

"Funnily enough on one of my construction sites last week there was a union jack flag put up and I had it removed immediately," he said.

On Patriotism

"Certain viewers may be thinking and thinking: 'Gary you’re not really patriotic.' I’ve played for my country 85 times, I love my country, I love Manchester and I cherish England," he stated.

The 50-year-old, said that in the years he has been building in the city, he had not witnessed British flags at the current rate and pondered the reason for this increase.

"The British flag used in a negative fashion is not right and I consider myself a devoted backer of the nation, of Britain, of the UK and will defend it internationally as among the best nations to reside in," he proclaimed.

Urging National Introspection

"Yet, I feel it is crucial we reflect," he added, "assess our actions and contemplate about restoring a sense of equilibrium 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 societal and political matters, including that people should “detest” the unfavorable employment situations for migrant workers in Qatar and health service workers in the United Kingdom.

Diversity in Sports

In his social media footage, Neville commented on 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.

Post-Brexit Impact

He said he attributed fault to Brexit for its "damaging consequences" on the country, and said the "rhetoric" of discord was becoming "highly perilous."

"These foolish individuals that are disseminating offensive rhetoric in every form and hostility in any manifestation, it is vital we no longer amplify them," he emphasized.

"We should cease directing attention to them and the situation requires an instant halt and return to a nation of love, of peace, of harmony and unite as one once more."