James McClean leaves Derry City after agreement ends contract dispute

James McClean’s second spell at Derry City has ended after the player and club agreed to terminate his contract with immediate effect. A joint statement published by Derry on Wednesday confirmed that the agreement resolved their recent dispute, with both sides expressing satisfaction with the outcome and a wish to move forward.

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The 37-year-old returned to his hometown club from Wrexham in January but had not played since July, according to BBC Sport. His departure follows a public disagreement over an earlier attempt to end his contract, rather than the conclusion of the homecoming he had envisaged when he rejoined the League of Ireland side.

Earlier this month, McClean challenged the club’s treatment of him in a statement issued through the Professional Footballers’ Association of Ireland. BBC Sport reported that he disputed any suggestion he was permanently incapacitated and maintained he was able to contribute. Derry, in response, said it had sought a private resolution and would not discuss sensitive medical details concerning his hip condition.

Wednesday’s announcement set out an agreed conclusion to that disagreement. McClean said he was pleased the matters had been resolved, while acknowledging that his return had fallen short of his hopes. He thanked supporters and wished Derry’s players, management and staff well, specifically offering encouragement for the FAI Cup final against Waterford.

Chairman Philip O’Doherty thanked McClean for his commitment to the club and recognised his wider contribution to Irish football, including his 103 senior appearances for the Republic of Ireland. The statement also credited Joe Jeffers SC and Stuart Gilhooly SC for their work in reaching a resolution. Neither the club nor McClean plans further comment on the matter.

McClean began his career at Institute before joining Derry in 2008. He moved to Sunderland in 2011 and subsequently played for Wigan, West Brom, Stoke and Wrexham before returning in January, BBC Sport reported. His exit comes ahead of Derry’s cup final against Waterford on 8 November, closing his second spell before that opportunity to compete for a trophy.