James McClean Declares Support for IRA's Original Goals, Cites Republican Upbringing

Footballer James McClean has stated that he supports the original goals of the Irish Republican Army (IRA), acknowledging that this support included "bloodshed." The 37-year-old, who has consistently refused to wear poppies on his shirt during Remembrance weekend, explained his position by detailing his upbringing in a "staunch Republican community" in Londonderry, Northern Ireland.

McClean, who earned 103 caps for the Republic of Ireland between 2012 and 2023, grew up on the Creggan estate, an area significantly impacted by the Bloody Sunday massacre in 1972. "Walk around and you’ll see it on every second wall: 'Join the IRA... Free Prisoners of War... RUC f***ing out'," McClean said, describing his environment. "So you’re surrounded by it."

While acknowledging he did not personally experience Bloody Sunday or the Troubles, McClean stated, "I grew up in the aftermath and the pain was still there." He further elaborated on his connection to the IRA's cause, noting that he grew up in the former home of Daniel Hegarty, who was killed during a British army operation in 1972. In an upcoming biography, "The Walls," McClean is quoted as saying, "I’m not claiming that every action was justified. Obviously, I don’t support anyone innocent being killed. But I am saying that I supported the original end goal, even if that involved bloodshed."

During an interview, McClean reiterated these sentiments, adding, "When you grow up listening to the stories there’s a part of you thinking: 'These are heroes. I wish I was part of that or born a decade earlier'. I’d be a hypocrite if I sat here and said I didn’t support their cause."

He clarified that he does not endorse all actions taken by the IRA, specifically mentioning the case of Jean McConville, a mother of ten abducted and murdered by the IRA after being wrongly suspected of being an informant. "Do I agree with that? Absolutely not," McClean stated. He also expressed disagreement with Martin McGuinness meeting the Queen, indicating a nuanced perspective on political actions connected to the Republican movement.

McClean also revealed his practice of muting the television when the British national anthem, "God Save the King," is played. "When I’m watching England matches, or the FA Cup final, I’ll mute the TV when the national anthem comes on," he said. "And I’m not the only one - you can ask anyone in Derry and they’ll say the same."

His consistent refusal to wear the poppy, which he has explained is due to its commemoration of all British military personnel, including those involved in conflicts in Northern Ireland, has led to controversy throughout his career. He has often stood apart from teammates during pre-match commemorations as a result.