
Football
Share
Published 11:22 1 Feb 2026 GMT
Updated 11:22 1 Feb 2026 GMT

James McClean made his return to Ireland last night, in his 'second' Derry City debut, as his hometown club defeated Shamrock Rovers in the President's Cup final.
The 36-year-old - who signed from Wrexham - made a his presence felt with a 33rd-minute assist for Darragh Markey's goal in the 1-0 win at Tallaght Stadium.
After receiving abuse from the home crowd, McClean celebrated in front of them at the South Stand, and took aim on social media after the game, writing: ‘Getting called an orange b*****d from your fellow countrymen. Stay classy.'
However, it was pointed out that he posed for photos with Rovers fans after the game.
Speaking on the Cup win, McClean said: "It's obviously nice.
"Winning matches is what it's all about, isn't it? We've got bigger aspirations this season, but it's always nice to start with silverware, especially against a team that are seen as probably the favourites for the league this year. They're the team to beat because they're the reigning champions.
"To come here on their turf and get a win, I think it's a nice statement, but at the end of the day, there's a long way to go. We'll enjoy it tonight. But it's nice to get the win to start."
Explore more on these topics:
Liverpool ‘make decision’ on sacking Arne Slot
Slot has overseen a significant decline in form this season Liverpool have already decided whether they will part company with manager Arne Slot this summer, according to Sky Sports News. Despite leading the Redmen to only their second ever Premier League title last season, Slot has lost a lot of good feeling with the club’s […]
Football
21h
Troy Parrott open to leaving Dutch top flight for Championship
Would this be a smart move…. The interest in Troy Parrott and his market value have risen exponentially over the past year, following his goal-scoring exploits for both club and country. The Dubliner has 30 club goals this season for AZ Alkmaar, and he scored and assisted in their KNVB Cup final win over NEC […]
Football
1 day ago
Champions League quarter final second legs: Follow all the action live
Football