Ulster Rugby has issued an apology after two of the club's players were photographed dressed as Ethiopian athletes with their faces and bodies painted black.

The photo of Paddy Jackson, Chris Henry and three of their friends was apparently taken over two years ago for an Olympic-themed fancy dress party, but came to light when the duo recently posted the picture on social media.

The province said: "We apologise unreservedly for any offence caused. It was not the intention of the players to cause upset and the photograph has since been removed."

Jackson made the image his cover photo on Twitter before removing the shot, while Henry posted a similar photo in May.