The GAA is embroiled in a row after an Armagh football club released a statement saying their players were subjected to “racist and personal” taunts during game against Laois last weekend.

It is alleged that the Armagh captain, Ciaran McKeever, was called a “British bastard” by a Laois player during the game last Sunday. McKeever was sent off at half time after allegedly kicking a Laois player. However, the captain did not accept the referee’s decision and returned to the field for the second half of the game. He has denied any wrongdoing.

The Armagh statement expressed concern “at the alleged racist and personal abuse, directed at our players, apparently going unpunished. Racist abuse is in direct contravention of Rule 1.12 : The Association is Anti-Sectarian and Anti-Racist.”

It continued: “The chanting of “God Save the Queen” and malign taunting of “British Bastard” has no place either on or off the field of play.”

“We endeavor to promote respect and fair play both on and off the field and do not condone any action which is a contravention of such fair play.”

It concluded: “However, we also expect to be treated fairly and the rules of the game to be applied in a fair and equitable manner.”