Derry City TEAR UP James McClean’s contract: Poppy protest footballer’s nightmare return to childhood club comes to an end amid claims he was ‘permanently incapacitated’
The ugly dispute between James McClean and Derry City is finally over after his contract was torn up.
Earlier this month, McClean, 37, branded it ‘incomprehensible’ and a ‘dangerous precedent’ for the club to try and terminate his deal due to his physical issues when they claimed he was ‘permanently incapacitated’.
But the Republic of Ireland international, who refused to wear a poppy on Remembrance weekend while representing English and Welsh clubs at the height of his career, has now come to an agreement with his boyhood side. He had two years left on the deal.
It is a nightmare end to what was supposed to be a fairytale homecoming and McClean had not been included in a matchday squad since July as the relationship soured.
‘While my return to the club did not work out as I had hoped, Derry City FC will always hold a special place in my heart,’ his statement read.
‘I want to thank the fans for their support, and I wish the squad, the management, staff, and the supporters the very best for the future. In particular, I want to wish the team the best of luck in the FAI Cup Final against Waterford FC.’
James McClean’s return to Derry City is over after his contract was torn up
Derry City chairman Philip O’Doherty thanked McClean for his ‘dedication’.
‘His achievements extend far beyond the Brandywell; amassing 103 senior caps for the Republic of Ireland is a remarkable milestone, and we want to formally acknowledge his immense contribution to Irish football as a whole,’ he said.
‘We wish him the very best for the future. Neither the club nor James McClean will be making any further comment on this matter.’
Derry attempted to axe McClean in August – despite signing him in January on a multi-year deal – reportedly claiming he is unable to fulfil his contract’s terms because he is not fit enough to play or train.
The former Wrexham man insisted he was ready to feature when called upon in a defiant statement.
‘This has been one of the most difficult periods of my life, both personally and professionally,’ McClean said in a statement on the PFA Ireland website on October 6.
‘When I agreed to come home from Wrexham, I did so in good faith, based on commitments made to me both playing wise and regarding my future after football. I uprooted my family midway through the school year because I believed in the vision presented to me, both for the short term and the long term.’
More to follow…
