Durkan brands Lennon threats 'deplorable'

Northern Ireland Deputy First Minister Mark Durkan has branded the sectarian death threat issued to Neil Lennon as "deplorable".

"Sectarianism and paramilitarism should not intrude into the sporting arena," he said.

"Neil Lennon is not just a first class player on the field but is someone who has a real commitment to sport at a youth and community level regardless of background."

Stormont economy minister Reg Empey said he was "shocked" by the threats against the footballer.

"Neil Lennon has just been recalled after unfitness and was about to captain his country and I think it is an absolute disgrace that he has been subjected to a death threat.

"I fully understand why he has taken this decision. I am sorry and saddened for this community if sport, which has always united people, is being used in a divisive way.

"I suspect the entire community condemns and deplores this threat and hopes that it will not further alienate Neil Lennon from playing for Northern Ireland when that is what the majority of supporters want.

"Evidently this latest attempt to threaten him discredits the game in Northern Ireland and it is in danger of turning us into the lepers of international sport."