Paddy McClean’s retirement shocked Irish football today. A lot of fans are upset about this news. We look at three possible reasons why Glens fans could be annoyed.
Today, Patrick McClean, younger brother of Republic of International James McClean, has announced his immediate retirement from football at the age of 26.
The Glentoran defender said it was a decision he had been “thinking about for a while” in a social media post calling time on his career on Sunday evening.
The news of the Creggan man’s retirement has upset many Glens fans due to a number of factors. In this article, we take a look at the top three reasons why Glentoran fans are not happy with McClean’s decision.
New long-term contract – cut disappointingly short
McClean, who also played for his hometown club Derry City as well as Sligo Rovers and Waterford, joined the Glens in July 2019.
By June 2022, McClean was a fan favourite. The Glens rewarded McClean for his string of good performances towards the end of the 21/22 season with a new long-term contract.
That season, the then 25-year-old made 43 appearances across all competitions, including 30 games in the Irish Premiership. He also captained the side in the absence of injured Marcus Kane.
McClean seemed to be pleased with his new contract and looking forward to a future with Glentoran under manager Mick.
The former Derry City man said on social media, “Delighted to extend my contract with @glentoranfootballclub. Looking forward to going into the new season hungry for success and continuing a good relationship with the fans”.
The poppy – a controversial subject
McClean’s older brother and Wigan Athletic footballer, James McClean, has long come under scrutiny for his refusal to wear a poppy on his shirt during the annual remembrance weekend fixtures, stating free choice and personal beliefs as his reasons not to.
The poppy, a symbol of the British Army, is sold by The Royal British Legion to raise funds and commemorate those lost at war.
The poppy is controversial in some parts of Ireland, however, due to certain events during The Troubles, like Bloody Sunday. This horrendous event in history took place in Derry, where McClean comes from.
As Patrick McClean was to be such a marquee and important signing for the club and sensing the trouble that may lay ahead, some believe Glentoran FC made the decision to not wear the poppy on club jerseys to avoid controversy in the event that McClean refused to wear like his older brother James.
Poor timing of Paddy McClean’s retirement – damaging to the Glens
McClean’s stay at Glentoran was a successful one. He helped the east Belfast club to Irish Cup success in July 2020 and has been a regular in the side since his signing.
However, the timing of his decision to quit the game will come as a blow for the Oval outfit, who are still challenging for major honours this season and face Big Two rivals in the league on Tuesday night.
The timing of the move is also damaging to the Glens as the transfer window is closed, and the club are trying to focus on the Big Two clash at home to Linfield tomorrow night.
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