James McClean has played a crucial role in Wrexham’s rise through the divisions, but was not best pleased after a key decision by manager Phil Parkinson this season
A former teammate has spilled the beans on how Wrexham’s James McClean didn’t take too kindly to being teased about his lack of game time this season. The ex-Premier League wing-back has been a pivotal player for the Red Dragons since his move from Wigan Athletic in August 2023.
McClean has played a crucial role in Wrexham’s back-to-back promotions from League Two and League One, even earning the captain’s armband from manager Phil Parkinson. However, he’s found it more challenging to secure a spot on the pitch in the Championship this term.
McClean has only started three of Wrexham‘s first nine matches, with either new signing Liberato Cacace or Ryan Longman being Parkinson’s preferred choice. Former Newcastle midfielder Jeff Hendrick, who shared the pitch with McClean for the Republic of Ireland national team, has now disclosed that he’s been ribbing him over his diminished role in the starting line-up.
And it appears the outspoken 36-year-old wasn’t too chuffed about being the butt of the joke. Despite nearing the twilight of his career, Hendrick still believes McClean can have a positive impact in the dressing room as club co-owners Ryan Reynolds and Rob Mac strive to turn their Premier League dream into reality.
Speaking to Boyle Sports, Hendrick said: “He’s not been starting much lately. I actually texted him, saying, ‘Are you getting too old to be starting now?’ He wasn’t happy. Typical James McClean, always biting back, but James has played in the Premier League, Championship, and League One.
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“He knows what it’s all about, with over 100 games for Ireland. He has that experience. Believe it or not, he’s not what people think, he’s actually quite quiet and calm. He trains really hard, of course, but he enjoys having fun around the training ground.
“It’ll be great for the younger lads coming into the squad, or those who haven’t played in the competitions or leagues he has. They’ll definitely learn a lot, especially from how he conducts himself and how hard he works. James is 36 and I’d be surprised if there’s a harder-working player at Wrexham right now.”
He added: “I think he will keep driving those standards. Older players might not be vocal or shouting, but they have a certain aura. People keep an eye on them, watching what they’re doing, wanting to learn from them. I think that will help push the squad.”
Hendrick revealed earlier this month that he plans to hang up his boots at the age of 33 after playing for clubs such as Derby County, Burnley and Newcastle. He also had loan spells at Queens Park Rangers, Reading and Sheffield Wednesday during his time with the Magpies.
He briefly returned to Derby on a short-term deal at the end of last season, but found himself without a club during the summer transfer window. Hendrick has opened up about how McClean tried to convince him to join Wrexham at one point, but a formal offer never came through.
He said: “I can’t recall exactly when it was, but I remember James asked me if I was able to leave Sheffield Wednesday. I told him I didn’t think so and he suggested I come to Wrexham. However, that was just him pushing for it.
“James was keen, but the offer never came from the manager or the club itself. If it had, it might have been interesting for me because I wasn’t playing and I was eager to get back on the pitch.
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“I was probably a bit angry about the situation I was in and it would have been a relief to leave. It would have been great to be part of Wrexham’s promotion. But no, nothing came of it.”
Hendrick reckons Wrexham will establish themselves in the Championship this season after winning promotion from League One, though he believes their rivals Birmingham may be better placed for a play-off challenge.
He said: “I think both teams spent money, trying to target players with high wages, more than some teams relegated from the Premier League are paying. They definitely have the backing, but it’s still early days.
“Wrexham are trying to gel players together and have been unfortunate in a few games, but it takes time. I don’t think either team is under pressure of relegation, but Birmingham might have a better chance of making the top-half play-offs, as they look more comfortable.”
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