JAMES MCCLEAN HAS criticised Derry City manager Kenny Shiels for making “silly and stupid comments” to the media.
The West Bromwich Albion midfielder was particularly irate about Shiels’ recent comments on modern-day international football.
The Derry boss asserted that there is no longer any pride in international football, dismissing the Republic of Ireland as “England’s reserves” and Northern Ireland as “England’s reserves’ reserves.”
McClean, who broke through at Derry City before going on to become a senior Ireland international, took exception to Shiels’ assertion and questioned the 60-year-old’s “right or credentials” to voice such an opinion.
“I’ve become frustrated and very disappointed reading some of the silly and stupid comments made by Kenny Shiels in the media,” McClean told the Derry Journal.
I remain a dyed in the wool Derry City fan. I really enjoyed representing the Candystripes and to have successfully battled my way through to play international football for my country makes me feel particularly proud.
“What right or what credentials does Kenny Shiels hold to make such ridiculous comments on international football?
“For me, playing in the Aviva Stadium in Dublin in front of thousands of people and wearing that green jersey means so much to me and my team-mates.
“I feel very proud and very fortunate to have been given an opportunity to wear that jersey.
I do everything in my power to give 100% when wearing it, so how dare Kenny Shiels make such ridiculous comments when he knows very little about playing international football?”
Shiels, who was recently rewarded with a contract extension after guiding Derry to a third-place finish, has rarely shied away from expressing his opinions this season.
Back in July, the former Kilmarnock boss said that League of Ireland referees “lack mental strength” and before that he claimed to have been on the receiving end of sectarian abuse during a game against Cork City.
McClean, who is no stranger to controversy himself, commended Shiels for guiding the Candystripes to third, but added that the manager of the Brandywell club should not be viewed “as a comedian.”
He’s actually been laughed at and ridiculed on television following the comments,” said the 27-year-old. “And I don’t believe a Derry City manager should be viewed as a comedian.”
He added: “I was very surprised, but delighted, that Derry finished in third spot.
“As far as I’m concerned, they’ve exceeded my expectations as I felt a mid-table finish would have been respectable.
“But the team has clearly punched above its weight and is fully deserving of such a high-placed finish.”
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