James McClean breaks silence as ex-West Brom and Sunderland star addresses Derry dispute

James McClean breaks silence as PFA Ireland releases statement on Derry City dispute

James McClean’s ongoing dispute with Derry City has taken another turn after PFA Ireland released a statement addressing the situation surrounding the former West Bromwich Albion, Sunderland and Wrexham winger.

The experienced Republic of Ireland international returned to his hometown club in January following a long career in the English game, but his homecoming has not gone as he would have hoped.

McClean has now found himself involved in a disagreement over his playing future at Derry, with his representatives challenging the circumstances surrounding the situation.

The former international has not played for the club since the 3-0 FAI Cup victory over Tolka Rovers on July 17, leaving him increasingly frustrated by his lack of involvement.

According to the statement released by PFA Ireland, no medical professional has concluded that McClean is unable to continue playing.

An orthopaedic surgeon, Desmond Gibson, reportedly assessed the winger at the club’s request on September 21 and concluded that McClean could continue his football career provided he was not suffering severe pain.

PFA Ireland says McClean is not experiencing severe pain and remains determined to return to action for Derry City.

McClean makes his position clear

McClean has also spoken about the personal impact of the dispute, explaining that his decision to leave Wrexham and return home was based on commitments he believed had been made regarding both his playing role and future beyond football.

The winger said he relocated his family during the school year because he believed in the long-term project at Derry.

He has described the attempted termination of his contract as a worrying development for players across the League of Ireland and insists that his retirement should ultimately be his own decision.

Most importantly, McClean has reiterated that he remains ready to play whenever he is selected.

The situation is particularly frustrating given the career McClean has enjoyed. He has won more than 100 Republic of Ireland caps and spent years playing at Championship and Premier League level.

McClean has battled through fitness problems

The current dispute also comes after McClean previously revealed that he had been dealing with hip problems for several years.

Despite those difficulties, the winger continued to play at a high level and remained an influential figure during his spells with clubs including Wigan Athletic and Wrexham.

He helped Wrexham achieve three promotions between 2022 and 2025, underlining his importance and longevity despite the physical demands of his career.

Now, McClean appears determined to get back on the pitch for his hometown club, with PFA Ireland’s statement putting further focus on his ongoing dispute with Derry City.