Northern Ireland drop former Rangers star Kyle Lafferty following alleged use of sectarian slur

“It is a complete set-up, but you can’t respond with that type of language.”

Kyle Lafferty is something of a cult-hero with the Northern Ireland fans, and for good reason - the Kilmarnock striker is currently second in the country's all time scoring ranks. The 34-year-old may have played his last game for his nation however, as video footage circulated the internet of the footballer using a sectarian slur. A man in a bar asked the former Rangers star for a photograph in a bar, but as they both smile for the picture, the man shouts "up the Celts." Not knowing that he was being recorded on video as well, Lafferty appears to turn and say "pack of fenian b*****s." An Irish FA source told the Belfast Telegraph: “It is a complete set-up, but you can’t respond with that type of language. It is appalling.” The forward was set to be involved with the squad for their upcoming Nations League fixture this Saturday, but following a statement released today, he will not be taking any further part. "Northern Ireland senior men’s team player Kyle Lafferty has been withdrawn from the squad ahead of the upcoming UEFA Nations League games against Kosovo and Greece," the statement read.

"The Irish Football Association is aware of a social media video which has been circulated widely. "The association also notes an investigation has been launched into the video by the striker’s club, Kilmarnock FC.

"A minor back problem has prevented Lafferty from participating in training since Tuesday." https://twitter.com/IrishFA/status/1573253438116433920 With 20 goals and 85 appearances under his belt, the Ian Baraclough native may have pulled on that green jersey for the last time. Last May he just signed a new one-year contract with Kilmarnock.