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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 "used in a negative fashion," as he called on people to question what it means to be a proud citizen.

A Video Message

In a social media video shared Friday, the ex-player turned businessman said he believed that "we’re all being turned on each other," attributing much of the blame for the divide on "angry, middle-aged white men … who know exactly what they’re doing|who are fully aware of their actions|who understand the consequences of their behavior}."

Contrasting Streets

He recounted traveling along a road in Salford, and seeing "dozens of British flags" on that section of the road. He then contrasted this with his journey back through the parallel road, Bury New Road, where the local Jewish residents were "visible outdoors, standing strong, unafraid."

Flag Removal

The pundit, who has developed a significant real estate business in Manchester since ending his playing career in 2011, said he ordered the removal of a British flag being flown on a development property.

"Curiously on one of my construction sites last week there was a British flag put up and I ordered its prompt removal," he said.

Thoughts on Loving One's Country

"Some people might be watching this and thinking: 'Gary, you lack patriotism.' I’ve played for my country 85 times, I am proud of my country, I love Manchester and I cherish England," he affirmed.

Gary Neville, now 50, said that in the time he has been developing in the city, he had not witnessed British flags at the current rate and questioned why this was the case.

"The British flag displayed in a divisive way is improper and I consider myself a devoted backer of the nation, of Britain, of this country and will promote it globally as one of the greatest places to live," he asserted.

A Call for Reflection

"But I think we need to check ourselves," he added, "reflect and begin considering about restoring a sense of equilibrium because we are being tugged in opposing directions and we don’t need to be pulled right and left at all."

Past Political Views

The Sky Sports commentator has frequently voiced his opinions on current affairs and social topics, such as stating people should "despise" the unfavorable employment situations for overseas laborers in Qatar and NHS staff in the UK.

Unity in Football

In his LinkedIn video, Neville commented on the variety within the sport, saying that he played with people from across the UK and from around the world. "It was a magnificent squad, totally together," he noted.

Post-Brexit Impact

He said he blamed Brexit for its "harmful impact" on the country, and said the "rhetoric" of separation was becoming "profoundly risky."

"These foolish individuals that are out there spreading hate speech in whatever form and hostility in any manifestation, we need to cease elevating them," he emphasized.

"It is imperative we no longer give them a platform and it needs to stop now and get back to a country of love, of tranquility, of accord and unite as one once more."