James McClean receives special permission to exit pitch directly after facing abuse
rte.ie —
James McClean, a former Republic of Ireland international and current Wrexham captain, has been given special permission to leave the pitch directly to the tunnel. This decision follows repeated verbal abuse he has faced from fans. The English Football League (EFL) announced this change to help protect McClean during matches. Previously, players had to exit via the nearest touchline, which exposed them to potential harassment. McClean has faced ongoing abuse related to his refusal to wear a poppy for Remembrance Day. He has expressed that the poppy's meaning differs for him compared to others, leading to his decision not to wear it.