Particle.news
Download on the App Store

James McClean Returns to Derry City After X-Rated Farewell to English Football

The homecoming prioritizes a return to family support in Derry after years of abuse tied to his refusal to wear a poppy.

Overview

  • The 36-year-old finalized his Wrexham exit by mutual agreement and has signed for hometown club Derry City.
  • During a pre-match farewell at the Racecourse Ground, he raised both middle fingers toward Leicester’s away end and later posted “f*** you and good riddance” to away fans on Instagram.
  • Having left FA jurisdiction, he is not expected to face disciplinary action over the gesture or the post.
  • Wife Erin told BBC Radio Foyle the family is leaving their Cheshire home with “a huge sense of relief,” focusing on settling their children and securing support for their autistic daughter.
  • Playing time had diminished this season after he captained Wrexham to back-to-back promotions, and the EFL previously granted him special dispensation following a 2024 drink-throwing incident at Birmingham.