Dennis Rodman has angrily defended his visit to North Korea, ahead of a basketball game to mark leader Kim Jong-Un’s birthday.

In an interview with CNN, Dennis Rodman was asked if he would raise the issue of a U.S. citizen jailed in North Korea. The former NBA player responded with a rant that at one point appeared to point blame at the man, Kenneth Bae. Rodman’s visit has been criticised by rights groups, with Washington making it clear he does not represent the U.S.

His team of former National Basketball Association (NBA) players will take on a North Korean team in an exhibition match later on Wednesday in Pyongyang. Rodman says the match is to celebrate Kim Jong-un’s birthday, although his official birthday and age have not been confirmed.

It comes weeks after the execution of Mr. Kim’s uncle, Chang Song-Thaek, once seen as a major power in North Korea. His rapid and brutal purge has sparked concern over stability inside the country. A White House spokesman declined to comment on Rodman’s remarks, but reiterated a call for North Korea to release Mr Bae – who is suffering from ill health – on humanitarian grounds.

– Scott Randell (@DefinedByMvsic)