James McClean leaves Derry City after agreement ends contract dispute

James McClean has left Derry City after the club and the former Republic of Ireland international agreed to end his contract immediately. BBC Sport reported that a joint statement issued on Wednesday confirmed a resolution to the dispute, bringing his second spell at his hometown club to a close.

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The 37-year-old returned to Derry from Wrexham in January but had not been named in a matchday squad since July. Earlier this month, he publicly criticised a previous attempt by the club to terminate his contract. He also described his time outside the squad as an exceptionally difficult period, both personally and professionally.

Wednesday's statement presented a more conciliatory position, with both sides expressing satisfaction with the outcome and a willingness to move forward. McClean welcomed the settlement while acknowledging that his return had fallen short of his hopes. He thanked supporters and offered his best wishes to the players, coaching staff and others at the club, while stressing his continuing affection for Derry.

Club chairman Philip O'Doherty thanked McClean for his commitment to his hometown team and recognised his contribution to Irish football beyond his appearances at the Brandywell. O'Doherty highlighted the winger's 103 senior appearances for the Republic of Ireland. That international record formed part of the club's public tribute as the two sides confirmed that their contractual relationship had ended.

McClean began his career with Institute before joining Derry in 2008. His first spell at the Brandywell lasted three years, ending with a move to Sunderland in 2011. He subsequently played for Wigan, West Bromwich Albion, Stoke and Wrexham before returning to Derry this January. The agreement now closes that homecoming less than a year after it began.

Derry still have two significant fixtures to complete their season. They visit Sligo Rovers on Friday for their final League of Ireland Premier Division match, before facing Waterford in the FAI Cup final at the Aviva Stadium on 8 November. McClean specifically wished the team luck for the cup final in his farewell remarks, despite the difficulties surrounding the end of his stay.