Former Republic of Ireland international James McClean claims that he was originally exposed to verbal abuse in the players’ parking lot before one man rushed towards him.
Wrexham star James McClean has admitted to hitting a Cardiff supporter ahead of last week’s all-Welsh Carabao Cup match, but claims he did so in self-defense.
The former Premier League winger was embroiled in an altercation with opposing fans before the fourth-round match at the Racecourse Ground on Tuesday, October 28, which the Bluebirds won 2-1. The 36-year-old has now claimed in a statement to talkSPORT that the fight began when he was challenged by four Cardiff supporters outside the stadium after arriving by car.
McClean claims that he was originally verbally abused in the players’ vehicle lot before one man approached him. The former Republic of Ireland international claimed he took a swing at one of them before approaching the pitch.
A Wrexham spokeswoman stated that the event was reported to the appropriate authorities, however North Wales Police are not actively investigating the situation. Broadcaster Jim White read McClean’s words on air on Wednesday afternoon, after he approached him for comment.
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In a text message to White, he explained: “What occurred was I got out of my car in the players’ parking lot. There were four male Cardiff fans in their late twenties and early thirties. They recognised me and instantly began yelling at me. I ignored the first remark. The second one, I responded to and confronted them about it.
“Words were spoken. One of them, a big man wearing spectacles, made a threatening move toward me. As I’ve mentioned in past interviews, Jim, I’m in my workplace, and I believe I should never feel endangered there. So I didn’t wait for him to take the initial swing. So, I did. Four men and one of me.
He went on to say, “People must understand that just because we play football does not mean they can act recklessly without consequences. That was it. Nothing further occurred. The situation was dealt with. I hope this helps.
McClean was an unused replacement in Wrexham’s defeat to Cardiff, which cost them a place in the Carabao Cup quarterfinals. Will Fish scored the winning goal for the Bluebirds, who advanced to League One after defeating their Championship opponents.
A Wrexham spokeswoman stated: “Wrexham AFC is aware of an incident involving a first-team player and a visiting supporter prior to our match against Cardiff City, which has been reported to the appropriate authorities. We will make no more comments on the topic at this time.”
Cardiff were thus drawn against Premier League powerhouse Chelsea in the quarterfinals. The glamorous match against the five-time champions will take place at Cardiff City Stadium in the week of December 15.
Cardiff defender Perry Ng said the team’ WhatsApp group was buzzing with excitement after learning who their opponents were.
“The group chat was bouncing,” he explained. “I’m excited to walk in and visit everyone and hear their thoughts. I went to see the Wales game the other day, and the atmosphere was electric.
“Even in Swansea games, the stadium is incredible, the atmosphere is fantastic, and it adds to the excitement on the pitch. If we can get our place moving, I’m confident Brian (Barry-Murphy) won’t advise us to take a backseat. We’ll go at them full force, as we have with other teams, and see what happens.
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