James McClean has confirmed that he struck a Cardiff City supporter during an altercation outside Wrexham’s stadium, saying he acted in self defence after being confronted by a group of rival fans.
The incident took place on October 28 before Wrexham’s Carabao Cup meeting with Cardiff at the Racecourse Ground, a tie which Wrexham went on to lose 2-1.
The confrontation occurred in the players’ car park, where McClean had arrived ahead of the match.
The 36-year-old has now told talkSPORT that a group of four Cardiff supporters approached him and began to verbally abuse him.
A Wrexham source has previously claimed that McClean was reacting to a direct physical threat, and the player has now provided his own account of what happened.
In a message to the broadcaster, McClean wrote: “What happened was I got out of my car in the players' car park. Somehow, there were four male Cardiff fans, also late 20s, early 30s.
“They recognised me, and immediately started running their mouths off at me. I ignored the first jibe. The second, I responded to, and I confronted them about it.”
James McClean has confirmed that he struck a Cardiff City supporter during an altercation outside Wrexham’s stadium, saying he acted in self defence after being confronted by a group of rival fans | PAHe continued: “Words were said. One of them, a tall chap with glasses, made a hostile move towards me. Like I've told you in previous interviews, Jim [White], I'm in my workplace and I feel I should never feel threatened in that workplace.
“So instead, I wasn't waiting for him to make the first swing. So I did. Four men, one of me.”
McClean emphasised that the incident ended quickly.
LATEST SPORTS NEWS:
James McClean revealed that the incident wasn't reported to the police - but Wrexham are investigating
| PA“People need to understand just because we play football doesn't mean people can try and take liberties without their actions having consequences. That was it. Nothing further happened. And the situation was dealt with. I hope that helps,” he added.
The altercation was not reported to the police at the time, although both clubs have been made aware and internal investigations are ongoing.
One point of concern for Wrexham is how the supporters gained access to the secured players’ parking area, which is normally restricted on matchdays.
A statement from Wrexham read: “Wrexham AFC are aware of an incident involving a first team player and a visiting supporter ahead of our match against Cardiff City, which has been reported to the relevant authorities. We will be making no further comment on the matter at this stage.”
McClean did not feature in the match itself, remaining on the bench throughout the defeat.
The tie saw League One side Cardiff progress to the quarter finals thanks to a late winning goal from Will Fish.
James McClean, who plays for Wrexham, has previously made it clear he'll never wear a poppy
| GETTYThe Republic of Ireland international has long been a divisive figure in British football, with his refusal to wear a poppy during Remembrance commemorations often drawing public criticism and, at times, sustained abuse from opposition supporters.
Last year the EFL granted Wrexham special permission to take measures aimed at protecting McClean from targeted chanting.
talkSPORT presenter Jim White, who has interviewed McClean several times, said on air: “One thing about James is he’s not backward and coming forward.
“This is what happened. And it happens to him from time to time.”
McClean has spoken frequently about his determination not to be intimidated in stadiums or outside them, insisting that players should not be expected simply to endure personal harassment.
The investigation into the incident is continuing.