James McClean arrived for training at Derry City on Tuesday morning, asserting his position as a player with the club despite reports that Derry City is attempting to terminate his contract. The 37-year-old, who joined his hometown club at the start of the 2026 season, arrived in a black Range Rover.
According to reports from the Irish Independent, Derry City claims McClean's contract could be canceled due to a supposed lack of 'physical capacity,' suggesting he is not fit enough to play or train. McClean, however, is expected to argue that the contract cannot be unilaterally canceled and that his fitness must be determined by an independent physician.
McClean has two years remaining on his contract but has started only 12 of Derry City's 27 league games this season. The team currently sits sixth in the League of Ireland Premier Division standings.
McClean has previously generated headlines for his refusal to wear a poppy during Remembrance Day commemorations. He has stated his reasons stem from the poppy's association with British soldiers involved in conflicts, including the events of Bloody Sunday in 1972 in his home city. He has maintained this stance throughout his career, even while playing in England, and has spoken of receiving abuse and death threats for his position.
He has indicated that his return to his hometown club after a 15-year spell in English football has not been as personally fulfilling as he had hoped, citing discrepancies between expectations and reality. McClean has won over 100 caps for the Republic of Ireland and has stated his commitment to his convictions.
In October of the previous year, McClean recounted instances of receiving death threats and bullets in the post due to his poppy stance, detailing heightened security measures during his time playing for the Republic of Ireland. He expressed frustration with the public debate surrounding his decision, emphasizing his belief in staying true to his convictions.