Sunderland apologise for referencing controversial chant in Kyle Lafferty transfer announcement

Posted Tuesday, January 14, 2020 by Thesun.co.uk

SUNDERLAND made a massive social media gaffe when they announced the signing of Kyle Lafferty by referencing a controversial song.

The Black Cats quoted a chant from 32-year-old Lafferty's time at former club Rangers.

Sunderland apologise for referencing controversial chant in Kyle Lafferty transfer announcement
Sunderland made a social media gaffe when they referenced this song during Lafferty's unveiling

And it was alongside photos of the 73-cap Northern Ireland star that one person working on Sunderland's social media team made the unfortunate mistake.

They captioned the photo with the message: "He's seven foot tall and he plays the flute."

The song is a reference to loyalist flute bands in Northern Ireland.

Sunderland's post was quickly deleted once the implications became clear.

A club spokesman said: "It was written in all innocence by someone unaware of how it could be interpreted.

"As soon as it was pointed out, the tweet was deleted."

Speaking after his signing, Lafferty said: "I am excited to sign for Sunderland because it is probably the biggest club I have played for in England. I know what it takes to play for a team like this.

"I said when Sunderland approached me that I would’ve come here at 21.

"I feel blessed and excited to get the opportunity to come here at the age of 32."