Republic of Ireland international James McClean says he's going to delete his instagram after being disciplined by Stoke for making a post where he was wearing a balaclava. 

The Potters have fined the winger two weeks wages for what they've determined to be an inappropriate social media post.

30-year-old McClean had posted an Instagram story, in an attempt at humour, with a photo of the midfielder sitting in front of his children with the caption 'today's school lesson - history'.

 

 

Stoke say the player displayed "contrition and recognised that the post was ill advised and offensive" during his disciplinary hearing.

“I never wanted to cause any offence but I now realise that I did so and for that I apologise unreservedly. I have spoken to the Club and will be deleting my Instagram account," McClean added.

The Derry native, who chooses not to wear a poppy during the period of commemoration due to his political beliefs, was subjected to sectarian abuse by Huddersfield and Barnsley fans earlier this season and had received support from the FA and PFA following those incidents.

“Maybe the tide is turning,” McClean said after receiving a supportive message from a member of the FA earlier this year. “I appreciate the text; it said that if there were any issues, I should report it. It was the first time that such support was shown. It’s a long time coming and it’s something I appreciate. I was shocked because it was a random number. But as much as I was shocked, I appreciate it as well.”