McClean admits fight to save career from chronic hip injury

The Ireland centurion returned to his hometown club Derry City on a two-year deal.

BATTLE: James McClean trained today at Celtic Park ahead of Friday’s historic visit of champions Shamrock Rovers to the GAA venue. Pic: INPHO/Lorcan Doherty

Ireland centurion James McClean admits his career could be cover as he visits a specialist on Friday desperate for surgery on his chronic hip problem.

McClean returned to his hometown club Derry City on a two-year deal and, despite being a regular midfielder, injuries and suspension have recently sidelined him.

He trained today at Celtic Park ahead of Friday’s historic visit of champions Shamrock Rovers to the GAA venue.

However, a day after celebrating his 37th birthday, McClean provided an update via social media on his bleak plight.

He admits the artificial surface that billionaire owner Philip O’Doherty is replacing with grass has exacerbated the problem.

“For the past few years, I’ve been playing through difficulties with my hip,” he wrote in a post accompanied by an energy drink.

“Though I have managed to play and train through the pain, the impact from Astro has sped up the damage much more than I could have anticipated.

“I was told by a specialist 10 days ago that my body had no business being on a football pitch due to the severity of damage.

“I respect his honesty and expert opinion but I have never been one to lay down without a fight.” 

The ex-Sunderland, Stoke City, West Bromwich Albion, Wigan Athletic midfielder confesses he is in last-chance saloon.

“Friday’s appointment is my last chance to hopefully get a surgery - if it’s even a possibility- to allow me do what I’ve always dreamt doing, that is contributing while in an acceptable physical state to do so.”