James McClean, born on April twenty-second, nineteen eighty-nine, is an accomplished Irish professional footballer known for his dynamic play as a winger. He currently represents Derry City in the League of Ireland Premier Division, a club that holds a special place in his heart as it is based in his hometown of Derry.
McClean's football journey began with local clubs Trojans and Institute before he made his mark at Derry City. His talent caught the attention of Sunderland, where he signed in two thousand eleven, marking the start of his career in England's Premier League. In August two thousand thirteen, he transferred to Wigan Athletic, where he enjoyed a successful two-season stint, earning the club's player of the year award in his second year.
In June two thousand fifteen, McClean returned to the Premier League with West Bromwich Albion, where he played for three seasons before moving to Stoke City in July two thousand eighteen. His career came full circle when he re-signed with Wigan Athletic in August two thousand twenty-one, and he later joined Wrexham two years after that.
Internationally, McClean initially played for the Northern Ireland national under-21 team but opted to represent the Republic of Ireland instead. In February two thousand twelve, he received international clearance from FIFA, allowing him to debut for the Republic against the Czech Republic. Over the next eleven years, he made one hundred and three appearances for his national team, showcasing his skills at the UEFA European Championship in both two thousand twelve and two thousand sixteen.