Claim, counter claim and fury in James McClean Derry City fall out

A public dispute has erupted between James McClean and Derry City after the club attempted to terminate the 37-year-old winger's contract, citing permanent incapacity. McClean, the PFA Ireland, and Derry City have all released conflicting statements regarding his medical status and contract dispute ahead of an FAI Cup semi-final against Galway United.

PFA Ireland stated that McClean is fully fit and that Derry invoked Section 18 of the Standard Players Contract without independent medical backing. Derry City expressed frustration over the public timing of the statements, maintaining that squad selection remains the prerogative of management following internal assessments.