Kenny Shiels apologises for 'women are more emotional' remark after Northern Ireland boss slammed for bizarre claim

Kenny Shiels has issued an apology after claiming his Northern Ireland women's side conceded quick-fire goals because they are "more emotional" than men.

The former Kilmarnock and Morton manager has come under fire after making the bizarre remark following his team's World Cup qualifying defeat to England on Tuesday night.

Pundits and fans have lined up to slam Shiels' view that there is an "emotional imbalance" in the women's game that leads to goals being shipped in clusters.

But following the reaction, the 65-year-old has moved to say sorry.

Shiels said in statement: "I wish to apologise for my comments made in the post-match press conference last night. I am sorry for the offence that they have caused.

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"Last night was a special occasion for the women’s game in Northern Ireland and I am proud to manage a group of players who are role models for so many girls, and boys, across the country.

"I am an advocate for the women's game and passionate about developing opportunities for women and girls to flourish."

Shiels had claimed in his post-match press conference that there was a pattern in the women's game that pointed to a psychological.

He said on Tuesday night: "I thought they were struggling a wee bit