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Irish Mirror
Irish Mirror
Sport
Vincent Whelan

James McClean calls people singing Michaela McAreavey song in controversial video 'scum'

James McClean has expressed his disgust at the video of a song mocking Michaela McAreavey's tragic death.

The Ireland winger was like countless others, horrified by a viral video showing a chant being sung at a function with Orange Order banners appearing to be visible in the background.

He hit out at the abhorrent video (@macajw)

He wrote: "Vile, scum, vermin to name just a few words to describe these people, solidarity with the Harte and McAreavey families."

The video has been widely condemned by figures from across the political spectrum including Taoiseach Michael Martin.

Two men involved in the video have apologised for their actions and the hurt caused by lyrics which seemingly mocked her brutal murder while on honeymoon in 2011.

Meanwhile Linfield FC have sacked a volunteer coach after he appeared in the video.

The Belfast club said it had been "made aware of a deeply offensive video in circulation on social media", reports Belfast Live.

A club spokesperson said immediate action had been taken against the person identified.

"The coach in question has been contacted and notified that his voluntary association with the club has been terminated with immediate effect," a club statement read.

"Linfield FC condemns the offensive, sickening and deeply hurtful and insulting chanting that is taking place on the online video and this club wishes to disassociate itself totally from the unacceptable behaviour that has understandably caused major upset and offence to the Harte/McAreavey families who have suffered terribly since the loss of their daughter/wife several years ago.

"Linfield FC will not tolerate behaviour among any of our personnel that falls short of the standards that the club expects and as has been illustrated on this occasion, the club will act swiftly and decisively against any individual whose conduct falls short of the standards that are required.

"Linfield FC apologies to the Harte/McAreavey families for the hurt that has been caused to them by the offensive actions of one of our now former coaches.

"Linfield FC is totally opposed to sectarianism, bigotry, racism, prejudice and all forms of discriminatory behaviour and there can be no place within this club for any of these forms of offensive and unacceptable behaviour."

The Orange Order has confirmed it is investigating the video, which may have taken place in one of its premises.

The PSNI has also said it is examining the video to see if any offences took place.

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