Wrexham star brands Shrewsbury 'cesspit full of inbreds' after derby disturbances
Wrexham forward James McClean branded Shrewsbury a “cesspit full of inbreds” following an altercation with supporters during last week’s cross-border derby.
The former Albion winger and Republic of Ireland international has long been targeted by opposition fans due to his decision not to wear a poppy and was taunted during Town’s 2-1 win at Croud Meadow last Thursday night.
McClean, who became embroiled in rows with home supporters at various points of the night, posted a video on his Instagram account on Saturday morning with the caption: “In fairness if I was born and raised in Shrewsbury I'd probably be this angry as well cause it's an absolute cesspit full of inbreds.”
The video was later deleted and it is understood the Football Association are investigating allegations of crowd disturbances during the match.
McClean, who made more than 100 appearances for Albion during a three-year spell at The Hawthorns between 2015 and 2018, was born in Derry and has long made clear his reasons for not wearing a poppy, believing it is disrespectful to those who died in his hometown during The Troubles in Northern Ireland.
He said recently: “If the poppy was simply about World War One and Two victims alone, I'd wear it without a problem.
“I would wear it every day of the year if that was the thing but it doesn't. It stands for all the conflicts that Britain has been involved in.
“Because of the history where I come from in Derry, I cannot wear something that represents that.”
The explanation has not stopped McClean, who has also played for Sunderland, Wigan and Stoke, being targeted by opposition supporters throughout his career.
Tempers flared around the hour mark as McClean prepared to take a throw in front of home supporters housed in the Block 19 section of the ground.
Stewards were required to intervene and it is claimed objects were thrown at the visiting player.
A further flashpoint occurred in the closing moments of the match when McClean was on the end of a crunching tackle from Shrewsbury defender Toto Nsiala. The pair became embroiled in a shouting match.
Visiting boss Phil Parkinson brushed off the treatment McClean had received when asked about it following the final whistle.
He said: “He's fine. James is used to it wherever he goes.
“Fans get on his back home and away and sometimes it can be tough and spill over but he's used to it.”
