Chiles, who is a lifelong West Brom fan, was hosting the club's annual awards dinner when he referred to Odemwingie as a "t***".

When announcing the Tweet of the Year award, Chiles said: "Oh, no, sorry, it's 'T*** of the Year', and the winner is Peter Odemwingie".

The 31-year-old striker attempted to force through a move to QPR on transfer deadline day in January but was unsuccessful and went on to criticise West Brom on Twitter but, despite this, Clarke said Chiles' comments were out of order.

"It was a ridiculous comment to make. I didn't like it. I didn't say anything about it at the time but I'm saying it now – it was a stupid comment," he said.

"It was out of place – it was a West Bromwich Albion awards night. There was no place for that kind of comment. It was a throwaway line from somebody who should know better.

"Peter's one of my players. I've said it all season, I protect my players fiercely; that's why I didn't like it. There wasn't time to saying anything [about it] on the night."

Odemwingie was not present at the event, having gained permission from Clarke who said he completely understood his striker's views.

"Peter had permission from me not to go to the event," he said.

"I think he was concerned that if you go to an event like that, then it's to celebrate the season. If somebody comes out with a wrong comment or something that's not right, then it can work against you. Peter didn't want to go. I respect that."