Bohemians defender Jason McGuinness has publicly apologised for racially abusing Sligo Rovers player Romauld Boco in the 0-0 draw between the two sides on April 18th.

In a statement released this afternoon, McGuinness expressed regret for the use of an “unacceptable” phrase and added he is “delighted” the Benin international accepted his personal apology.

The 26-year-old is believed to have been fined a week’s wages by his club and was suspended for their 2-0 win over Bray, but he will be back in the squad to face Dundalk tomorrow.

An FAI disciplinary committee will consider submissions from the players and clubs involved next Wednesday before deciding on what sanctions to impose, but McGuinness faces at least a five-game ban.

“I am aware that what I said was inexcusable,” McGuinness added, “but by way of explanation, I would point out that it was made in the heat of a hard fought encounter and was a one-off occurrence.

“This incident has reinforced to me the importance of the Show Racism the Red Card campaign and I am very anxious to get involved in this initiative to help stamp out all forms of racism in football and society.

“In respect of this incident, I have been disciplined by my club and I apologise to them and to Sligo Rovers for any offence or embarrassment caused to them. I hope that people will accept that this was completely out of character and that it has never happened before. I can confirm unequivocally that it will never happen again.”

The statement was released through the Professional Footballers' Association of Ireland (PFAI) and general secretary Stephen McGuinness added: “The PFAI is emphatically against all forms of racism and has worked tirelessly over the past eight years to be pro-active in the campaign against racism under the banner of Show Racism the Red Card.

“Players need to be comfortable in the knowledge that when they enter their workplace which is the field of play they are going to be respected by everyone - their team mates, opponents, referees, officials and supporters.

“Our Association is committed to educating the players and in turn helping the wider community in the fight against the evil which is racism.”