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£30k-a-week James McClean takes extraordinary swipe at Stoke-on-Trent and ‘victimised’ Stokies

Former Stoke City player of the year James McClean labels Stoke as 'grim' and has a pop at 'moaning' people of the city who 'gave off the vibe they had been victimised'

Published: Sunday, 25 October 2026 at 7:00 AM
£30k-a-week James McClean takes extraordinary swipe at Stoke-on-Trent and ‘victimised’ Stokies
Key Things to Know
  • James McClean sharply criticized Stoke-on-Trent and Stoke City supporters in his newly published book, The Walls.
  • McClean described the city as feeling victimized and recalled clashes with fans over his refusal to wear a poppy.
  • The winger confirmed earning £30,000 per week after Gary Rowett signed him for £5 million in 2018.
The Story in 60 Seconds

In his book "The Walls," James McClean has criticized Stoke-on-Trent and Stoke City supporters during his three-year spell at the club. The 37-year-old winger claimed the city gave off a vibe of people feeling "victimised" and described the club atmosphere as negative after his £5 million move under Gary Rowett in 2018.

McClean detailed past controversies regarding his stance on wearing a poppy, including clashes with fans and an FA investigation. He also confirmed earning a £30,000-a-week salary, experiencing dressing room dysfunction under multiple managers, and receiving a £900,000 pay-off upon departing for Wigan Athletic.

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