West Brom boss Tony Pulis has warned Ireland winger James McClean he must protect his reputation after his apparent snub of the English flag.
McClean refused to face the cross of St George during the national anthem while on Albion's pre-season tour of America.
The 26-year-old, signed from Wigan this summer, is from a republican background in Northern Ireland and has also refused to wear a Remembrance Day poppy out of respect for people killed on Bloody Sunday.
"Obviously there has been a stigma around him and he doesn't need to start that up again," Pulis told the Wolverhampton Express & Star.
"So hopefully we've nipped it in the bud and we can get on with our things and he can get on with his things.
"I had a chat with him and explained what we do as a football club and the way we are and I think he's fine with everything"
"I didn't see the situation but I had a chat with him and explained what we do as a football club and the way we are and I think he's fine with everything.
"We've got Northern Ireland lads in the squad and he's been absolutely fantastic with them, and the way he's mixed and integrated with the group has been brilliant.
"I've seen the pictures and he's got to turn towards the flag like everybody else has and he recognises that."
Meanwhile, the Baggies are expected to step up their interest in Liverpool's Rickie Lambert in the next 24 hours.
The clubs are keen to bring the striker to The Hawthorns and talks are set to take place between all parties, Press Association Sport understands.
