Wrexham’s star player, James McClean, is about to face a tense reunion with his former club, Stoke City. Known for his fiery personality, McClean had a controversial stint with the Potters, where his refusal to wear a poppy and outspoken nature often put him at odds with fans. Back in 2018, he clashed with supporters, labelling some as “uneducated cavemen” after they reacted to his stance.
McClean’s departure from Stoke in 2021 was far from amicable, with a reported fallout with manager Michael O’Neill. After moving on to Wigan Athletic, he relished a cheeky dig at Stoke during a later match, delighting in their defeat and unapologetically “milking it.”
Now at Wrexham, the 36-year-old veteran has been instrumental in the club’s recent successes, helping them achieve back-to-back promotions. Though he hasn’t been a regular starter this season, McClean remains a key figure at the club and recently extended his contract until the end of the 2026/27 season.
As Wrexham prepares to visit Stoke for their next league fixture, the big question is how the Stoke fans will welcome their former player. Will old wounds resurface, or will he receive a warmer reception this time around?
Despite his reduced playtime, McClean’s experience and leadership remain invaluable, especially for the younger squad members. His former teammate, Jeff Hendrick, believes James can still make a significant impact, praising his work ethic and influence in the dressing room.
All eyes will be on this weekend’s match to see how McClean handles the pressure of returning to his old stomping ground. Keep watching this space for more updates!