British boxer Amir Khan is setting a bad example to Muslims according to a radical cleric.

Omar Bakri Mohammad, who lives in Lebanon is reported saying: "Amir Khan is not a good example for Muslims. He wears shorts with the Union Jack. That is a sin.

"He should not be wearing the flag because sovereignty is for God. His only allegiance should be to the Prophet Mohammed."

The Commonwealth lightweight title-holder, who is from Bolton, Lancashire, is draped with the Union Flag in photos on his official website and often wears shorts featuring the emblem.

The Muslim Council of Britain (MCB) called Bakri Mohammad's comments "bizarre".

Inayat Bunglawala, assistant secretary general of MCB said: "He's a hugely successful boxer, proud of being Muslim and British. I can see why that could upset Omar Bakri, but to hundreds of thousands of British Muslims, Amir Khan is a wonderful role model."

Mr Bunglawala added: "These comments are typical of Omar Bakri.

"He doesn't live in this country and frankly his views are of no concern to British Muslims."

The self-styled radical cleric caused a media storm after the London bombings, declaring that the only people he blames for the London bombings are the government and British public.

Until the order allowing him indefinite leave to remain in the UK was revoked - thus excluding him from British soil - the government had also named him as one of three people it was investigating for having possibly committed treason.

Khan, 21, is due to fight Martin Kristjansen for the WBO Lightweight Championship of the World in his home town of Bolton on April 5.

The fight is billed as "National Pride" on an advertisement poster by promoter Frank Warren and shows Khan poised in a boxing stance.

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