Wrexham star James McClean stood apart from his teammates during today’s pre-match Remembrance silence at the Racecourse Ground, continuing his long-standing stance against wearing a poppy.
The 35-year-old Northern Irishman was named in the starting lineup for the League One clash against Mansfield Town but chose to stand separately as other players linked arms around the centre circle.
McClean also declined to wear the traditional poppy armband worn by players across the UK during Remembrance weekend fixtures.
Moments after the silence ended, Wrexham supporters began chanting that McClean “hates the f***ing King”, a reference to previous incidents involving the player.
The pre-match ceremony saw Royal Marines deliver the match ball, with crew members from HMS Dragon also in attendance.
Two other Wrexham players, defender Tom O’Connor and Ryan Barnett, were also spotted without poppies during the fixture.
James McClean stood away from his Wrexham team-mates on Saturday
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Speaking to the Belfast Telegraph, McClean explained his position: “Maybe I was a bit naive in thinking you know, with me being the one that took the stand first, it’ll pave the way for young Irish lads coming through.”
He revealed that other players privately share his views: “I speak to a lot of people and I’ve had players say that they don’t believe in wearing the poppy and they wouldn’t wear it, but they just don’t want to the hassle.”
James McClean has insisted he is not along in his views
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In September, McClean was involved in controversy after clashing with Birmingham City supporters, calling a fan a “smelly fat gammon” after catching a cup of Bovril thrown at him.
Earlier this year in April, he celebrated with Wrexham fans singing anti-King chants following a 6-0 victory over Forest Green Rovers.
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James McClean has previously chanted anti-monarchy songs
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Taking to Instagram afterwards, McClean wrote: “Is this correct?
“Absolutely and I also sang along at the top of my lungs,” adding: “Do I make any apologies for doing so? Absolutely not.”
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