James McClean has been fined two weeks’ wages by Stoke City after he posted a picture of him home schooling his children in a balaclava.

The winger has also agreed to delete his Instagram account following the post which provoked online criticism.

The 30-year-old Republic of Ireland international was pictured sitting above his two kids, his face covered by a balaclava, with the caption: ‘Today’s School lesson – History.”

McClean says the post was a joke but he has apologised for his actions:

“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.”

Stoke say the player now realises the post was “ill advised and offensive”.