SO SAD TO SAY GOODBYE: James McClean has announces his retirement due to his…..
McClean decided to end his international career last October after playing his 104th match for the Republic of Ireland against New Zealand. Subsequently, he played a pivotal role in Wrexham’s promotion to League One, contributing 13 assists and four goals in 44 appearances across all competitions.
Following a successful season with the Red Dragons, the midfielder is contemplating a return to the international stage. He recently hinted that he might reverse his retirement decision just months after initially announcing it.
Speaking on RTE, he said, “If that call comes, I’ll have a better answer in my mind. At the time, I didn’t want it to detract from the occasion. I don’t want to sound spoiled. I had my family there. Most people don’t get to retire on their own terms. But between November and March, I had time to reflect. And I wonder: did I take the easy way out because I got to retire on my terms? But as long as you’re still playing, you always feel you can still contribute. Maybe I retired too soon. But until that call comes… I’ll know then. I haven’t come so far.”
The 35-year-old will return to action for Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney’s side next month as the Welsh club travels to the US for pre-season.