England footballer Carlton Cole has sparked controversy by posting a remark on Twitter about Ghanaian fans being illegal immigrants.

The West Ham striker tweeted “Immigration has surrounded the wembley premises! I knew it was a trap! Hahahaha” after more than 20,000 Ghana fans watched their team clinch a 1-1 draw in a friendly against England last night.

The tweet has ignited furious debate on the social network site, with some users disgusted at what they deem a ‘racist’ remark and others applauding Cole, who has made seven appearances for England, for his sense of humour.

Cole, who last played for his country in March 2010, also tweeted “The only way to get out safely is to wear an england jersey and paint your face w/ the St. George's'flag!”

Shortly after, the 27-year-old reiterated that he was only joking, saying: “To my ghanian brothers dont take it so seriously, its just jokes! Youve played well! Done africa proud!”

Clearly taken aback by some of the shocked responses to his tweet, which included accusations of racism, the former Chelsea striker replied “Why are there so many sensitive people out there! it was a joke & its not even racist!”

Cole continued the joke by suggesting that the government would be able to identify Eastern European immigrants by tweeting “Next friendly is gonna be Poland then Albania, government think their sly! I see it a mile away! Haha”.