Bolton boxer Amir Khan is setting a bad example to Muslims by wearing the Union Flag with pride, radical cleric Omar Bakri Mohammadit has been reported as saying.

"Amir Khan is not a good example for Muslims. He wears shorts with the Union Jack. That is a sin," he told The Sun newspaper.

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

"The ideal situation would be to have a Muslim team not registered to any state so he can represent the Islamic community."

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

The controversial preacher now lives in Lebanon after leaving north London in 2005.