Row erupts in US after an Oregon high school footballer tackles a rival carrying the American flag onto the field

Portland Public Schools insists the incident had 'nothing whatsoever to do with the American flag'. The Jefferson High School player was ejected before Friday's kick-off against Grant High School in Portland. The Jefferson team deleted its Instagram account after acknowledging the clip. Jefferson principal Drake Shelton and athletic director Donnie Siel did not answer questions on Monday.

The district said the boy 'allowed his emotions to override his judgment'.

The Oregon School Activities Association said: 'Rivalry game or not, there's no place for this behavior.'

Ejected players can face a one-game suspension and a sportsmanship course.