Keith Hackett: Welsh FA may step in over 'derogatory' James McClean at Wrexham
01/18/2025 11:52 AM
Wrexham star James McClean faces contact from the Wales Football Association if he is reported after “derogatory comments”, Keith Hackett has said.
The former PGMOL chief and ex-FIFA official also suggested that the Welsh club need to keep on top of their player’s online behaviour with a public apology, rather than placing it in the “file and forget drawer.”
McClean took to social media after the 2-1 defeat and was clearly frustrated after being on the end of some chants aimed at him by the Shrewsbury fans, receiving a yellow card for confronting them at the end of the game.
The Hollywood star-owned Welsh side suffered only their fifth defeat in League One this season against rivals Shrewsbury Town, losing 2-1.
John Marquis opened the scoring in the 17th minute, having been set up by George Lloyd.
Former Premier League striker, Steven Fletcher, levelled for the Welsh outfit with a header from a Ryan Barnett cross.
However, Marquis would win the game for the Shrews with a tap-in from close range in the 48th minute.
James McClean back in the headlines after Wrexham controversy
Having started the game at left-midfield, McClean struggled to have an impact on the match.
Despite the goal from Fletcher, Wrexham struggled to get a grip on the match and never looked like winning it.
The former Stoke City man is no stranger to controversy, and was involved in a scuffle with a number of Bristol Rovers players during their match on 21 December.
When asked by Football Insider if McClean could face a punishment for his social media antics, the former Premier League referee said:
“I have officiated this game in the past and was well prepared. It does have a history of conflict.
“Players frankly should refrain from making these derogatory comments.
“Wrexham, whilst in the league, operate under the banner of the Wales Football Association.
“He is likely to receive a written warning from them if someone reports his comments to that organisation.
“Wrexham Football Club should offer him some operational advice and I would suggest make a public apology rather than placing it in the file and forget drawer.”
Wrexham will be looking to bounce back from their loss when they take on top-of-the-table Birmingham City on 23 January.
In other news, Wrexham are plotting to sign a former Premier League striker.
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The post Keith Hackett: Welsh FA may step in over 'derogatory' James McClean at Wrexham appeared first on Football Insider.
