Sam McClure has stated the AFL have “created a rod for their own back” in regards to Port Adelaide forward Jeremy Finlayson and his homophobic slur.

Finlayson has been suspended by the AFL for three games, but McClure thinks the league should’ve sent an “early message” in regards to Alastair Clarkson’s slur last month.

“If they had sent an early message, this would be easier,” he said.

Press PLAY to hear his comments on the situation

Image (Finlayson): James Elsby/Getty