James McClean’s wife Erin has revealed some of the shocking comments her family have been subjected to online as a result of her husband’s decision not to wear a poppy during Remembrance Week.
For a number of years now, Stoke City and Republic Of Ireland footballer James has abstained from wearing a jersey emblazoned with the symbol, a decision that has sparked ire among match-going supporters in England as well as social media users.
In recent days, McClean has hit back at his critics and the Football Association yesterday warned him about the use of an offensive word in one of his Instagram posts. Erin has since posted her own screenshot which certainly goes a long way to explaining some of James’ frustration.
One comment refers to McClean as an ‘IRA rat’ while another threatens to tattoo a poppy onto Erin’s face.
Many of Erin’s followers commented on the post with messages of support ranging from ‘rise above the jealous people’ to ‘absoulte scum.’
The McClean family has received support from both sides of the Irish Sea, with many in the UK backing James’ decision not to wear a poppy. Roscommon actor Chris O’Dowd, meanwhile, has thanked James for his stance.
Go raibh maith agat @JamesMcC_14
— chris o’dowd (@BigBoyler) November 5, 2018
READ NEXT: The Spice Girls Are Tipped To Play One Irish Show And It Would Be Massive