The incident that precipitated this decision occurred during a match against Mosborough Ladies FC. A player from the opposing team, referred to only as Shan, sustained a knee injury and had to be escorted off the field. Needham was reportedly involved in the play that led to this injury. Following this event, online comments suggested that Needham was the player linked to the injury.
Needham, in a now-deleted Facebook comment reported by a news outlet, expressed her distress over the perceived discrimination she faces. She indicated a possibility of pursuing a discrimination case, citing violations of the Football Association's (FA) and the Sheffield and Hallamshire Women and Girls League's diversity, inclusion, and adult safeguarding policies.
Her decision to step back from the sport, she explains, is to protect her team and its future prospects. However, Needham notes with disappointment that the current situation seems to contradict the principles of diversity and inclusion, despite her compliance with all FA requirements for participation.
The FA's policy on transgender participation emphasizes that gender identity should not be a barrier. However, this policy includes conditions such as the submission of medical evidence, which can be challenging due to long waitlists at gender identity clinics. The FA, responding to inquiries, acknowledged the complexity of the issue and the ongoing review of its transgender policy to ensure fairness, inclusiveness, and safety in English football.