'This statement was made without prior notice to the club': Derry City respond to James McClean's comments

Derry acknowledged McClean’s comments but insist their focus is on the “biggest match” of their season in just four days’ time against Galway United in the FAI Cup semi-final.

Derry City have released a statement welcoming James McClean’s apology for his actions, although the club admits it would have preferred to have resolved the issues privately. Pic: Eakin Howard/Sportsfile.

Derry City have released a statement welcoming James McClean’s apology for his actions, although the club admits it would have preferred to have resolved the issues privately.

McClean, along with the Professional Footballers Association of Ireland, released a statement on Tuesday morning apologising for his actions at times during his dispute with the club, as well as offering his side of the story with regards to Candystripes’ attempts to terminate his contract on medical grounds.

The former Republic of Ireland international also insisted he is ready to play “when called upon” as he looks to move on from what he described as "one of the most difficult periods" of his life.

Derry are currently preparing to take on Galway United in the FAI Cup semi-final on Saturday with manager Mark Connolly conducting his pre-match media duties on Tuesday.

But in a statement released by the club on Tuesday afternoon, City acknowledged McClean’s comments but insist their focus is on the “biggest match” of their season in just four days’ time.

“Derry City FC notes the public statement issued by the PFA Ireland (PFAI) on behalf of James McClean on 6 October 2026.

“This statement was made without prior notice to the club, just four days before the biggest match of the club’s season.

“The club welcomes James’ acknowledgement that some of his recent actions were misjudged and that his frustrations should have remained in-house.

“At all times, the club has sought to resolve this internal matter privately. Out of respect for confidentiality and the fact that this dispute involves sensitive medical details regarding James’ hip condition, the club have previously refrained from making any public statement on the matter.

“While the PFAI and James have chosen to publicise selective elements of the medical advice received, the club does not propose to comment further on James’ current medical condition.

“The club is fully aware of the obligations it owes to all contracted players. All squad members who are deemed fully fit remain available for selection.

“Ultimately, matchday selection remains the sole prerogative of the management team, acting in conjunction with guidance from our medical staff.

“The club’s absolute focus is on Saturday’s FAI Cup semi-final against Galway United, and the club will make no further comment on this matter at this time.”