James McClean confirms altercation with Cardiff City supporter
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, reports BritPanorama.
The incident occurred on October 28 before Wrexham’s Carabao Cup match against Cardiff at the Racecourse Ground, which Wrexham ultimately lost 2-1. The confrontation unfolded in the players’ car park, where McClean had just arrived ahead of the game.
The 36-year-old recalled to talkSPORT that four Cardiff supporters approached him and began verbally abusing him. McClean stated, “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.”
A source close to Wrexham indicated that McClean was reacting to a direct physical threat. He elaborated on the situation, saying, “Words were said. One of them, a tall chap with glasses, made a hostile move towards me. 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 confirmed that the incident concluded swiftly and highlighted the importance of holding fans accountable for their behaviour. He added, “People need to understand just because we play football doesn’t mean people can try and take liberties without their actions having consequences.”
The altercation was not reported to the police at the time, but both clubs have been informed, and internal investigations are currently underway. A key concern for Wrexham is how the supporters accessed the secured players’ parking area, which is generally 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 participate in the match itself, remaining on the bench throughout the defeat.
This incident highlights ongoing tensions surrounding McClean, who has long been a polarising figure in British football due to his refusal to wear a poppy during Remembrance commemorations. The EFL previously granted Wrexham special permission to implement measures to protect McClean from targeted chanting.
The investigation into the incident is ongoing, underscoring the complexities of fan interactions and player safety in contemporary football.
As ever in this volatile landscape, McClean’s determination not to be cowed by the crowd speaks volumes — a reminder that in football, rivalries often tread perilously close to the personal.
