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Daily Record
Daily Record
Sport
Gabriel McKay

Sunderland make Kyle Lafferty gaffe as ex Rangers man is announced with controversial song

Sunderland made a social media gaffe as they presented Kyle Lafferty to fans and media, referring to a song dating from his time with Rangers.

The Northern Ireland international joined the Black Cats on a free transfer last week, having spent the second half of 2019 with Sarpsborg.

The former Hearts striker has been officially presented today, giving an interview to Sunderland's club television channel.

It was his social media announcement that was the source of some controversy though, with the English club repeating the "he's seven foot and plays the flute" line from Lafferty's Rangers time.

The song is in reference to loyalist flute bands in Northern Ireland, and Sunderland's post was later deleted.

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."

Lafferty has also represented the likes of Norwich City, Palermo and Sion during his nomadic career.

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