A Scots footballer who was pictured wearing a t-shirt which appeared to show a pro-IRA slogan has lost his contract with a top-flight Northern Irish team.
John Herron had his deal with Larne FC terminated "by mutual consent" just over a week after a picture was circulated on social media showing the midfielder in a top bearing pro-IRA slogans. The t-shirt, in the colours of the Irish flag, bore a motto reading "ooh ah up the 'Ra" - a lyric by Irish rebel music band The Wolfe Tones referencing the paramilitary outfit.
The shirt also carried a graphic of the phrase "tiocfaidh ar la" - a slogan that translates as "our day will come" - in the shape of an assault rifle. Larne FC issued a statement this week confirming that Herron, from Coatbridge, was no longer playing at the club.
The team said: "We can confirm John Herron has left the club, after his contract was terminated by mutual agreement. We would like to take this opportunity to reiterate our total commitment to being an inclusive football club.
"We will continue to be unwavering in our work to make Inver Park a place for all and will not allow this to be undermined in any way, shape or form. The club will be making no further comment on the matter."
Herron has also been handed a 10-match ban by the Irish FA, which alleged in a notice posted on its website that he had "[brought] the game into disrepute". The Belfast Telegraph reports that he has returned to Scotland and is considering his options after spending two years with the County Antrim side.
The 28-year-old, who has played for the likes of Celtic, Raith Rovers and Blackpool, was suspended from the Northern Irish side a week ago after a picture of him with Cliftonville player Ronan Hale was shared online. The image was originally posted on Hale's Instagram profile with the caption "Yes sirrr @johnherron88".
Shortly after the picture was circulated Larne FC bosses confirmed they had suspended Herron pending an investigation. In a statement issued at the time the club said: "There is no room for behaviour which falls outside of this ethos and we fully expect members, players and anyone associated with the club to reflect these standards at all times."
Herron has declined to comment on the furore surrounding the shirt to date. The Record made a renewed approach to the player on Tuesday.
Don't miss the latest news from around Scotland and beyond - sign up to our daily newsletter here.
