The EFL have taken special measures to avoid further abuse being directed towards James McClean (Image: Getty)
James McClean has been given special permission to make a beeline for the tunnel when leaving the pitch, to avoid being abused for refusing to wear a poppy.
The EFL have taken special measures to reduce ‘hate crimes’ following a number of incidents involving the winger.
McClean has previously been targeted for his stance, including in September when a fan threw a hot drink at him. But the rule change means he will no longer be forced to walk along the touchline at close quarters with fans after being substituted.
McClean, 35, is a Londonderry-born Irish republican who says he is uncomfortable commemorating those who served in the British military. The EFL confirmed their tweak, which applies to all those at risk of being targeted with racial or religious slurs, via a letter to all member clubs.
It read: “You will be aware that James McClean is often on the receiving end of abuse from some sections of support. This has, in the past, resulted in FA sanctions against the club due to the chanting becoming racially, or religiously motivated and therefore, classed as a hate crime. Missiles have also been thrown.
“It has now been agreed that on occasions in the future when Mr McClean has to leave the field of play, for whatever reason, he will leave by the shortest route towards the tunnel.
James McClean stood away from his Wrexham team-mates before the game against Mansfield (Image: PA)
“This process will help to reduce these incidents and also help to manage Mr McClean’s departure from the pitch without incident.”
McClean has earned his living in England and Wales since being nabbed from League of Ireland side Derry City in 2011. The Republic of Ireland international, who boasts 11 goals and 103 caps for his country, has played for the likes of Sunderland, Wigan Athletic, West Bromwich Albion and Stoke City.
Earlier this month, McClean sparked outrage by standing away from his team-mates during pre-match Remembrance Sunday commemorations. He then wrote on : “I have addressed this matter many times, not that I should have to, but explaining it now on social media out of respect for work colleagues, team-mates past and present, fans who have supported me [Wigan, Wrexham especially] for them to have a full understanding.
“The poppy represents for me an entirely different meaning to what it does for others. Am I offended by someone wearing a poppy? No absolutely not, what does offend me though, is having the poppy try be forced upon me.”