James McClean becomes free agent as contract ripped up to end ugly long-running dispute

McClean's contract with Derry City has been terminated by mutual agreement, ending a dispute that saw him exiled from the squad since July.

Derry City and James McClean have reached a mutual agreement to terminate his contract with immediate effect, bringing an end to a long-running dispute. The 37-year-old former Republic of Ireland winger had been absent from the first-team squad since July after the club attempted to terminate his deal. McClean returned to his hometown club in January following his exit from Wrexham, signing what was described as a multi-year deal, but made just 20 appearances before falling out of favour. In a statement, McClean said: "While my return to the club did not work out as I had hoped, Derry City FC will always hold a special place in my heart." Club chairman Philip O'Doherty thanked McClean for his dedication and acknowledged his 103 senior caps for Ireland. Across his two spells at Derry, McClean made 108 appearances and scored 20 goals. The departure comes ahead of Derry's final league match against Sligo Rovers on Friday and the FAI Cup final against Waterford on November 8.