McClean, 37, is remembered in English football for his refusal to wear the poppy because he feels it shows disrespect to people who died during the Troubles in Northern Ireland.
James McClean revealed in an interview that former club Sunderland "hung me out to dry" when he first refused to wear a poppy in 2012. The 37-year-old opened up about receiving a death threat stating he would be shot if he played against Fulham, which prompted the Metropolitan Police to place two armed officers outside his home. McClean stated that Sunderland's public statement prioritized protecting the club over his safety.
The Derry native, who objects to the poppy due to the 1972 Bloody Sunday massacre, also addressed his current dispute with Derry City. After rejoining his hometown team in January on a multi-year deal, McClean said the club attempted to terminate his contract in August over fitness issues. He characterized the failed reunion as painful, expressing that his time with Derry City is likely over.
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