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Daily Mirror
11 hours ago
- Sport
- Daily Mirror
Wrexham's James McClean speaks out on scary car crash – 'Smoke was everywhere'
Wrexham captain James McClean has opened up on the car crash he was involved in on his way to training earlier this year and how he was lucky to escape unscathed Wrexham skipper James McClean has recounted the harrowing moment he narrowly escaped severe injury following a car crash. The ex- Republic of Ireland star was driving to training on January 22 when his Audi RS6 hit a roundabout near Wrexham Golf Club. Despite extensive damage to his vehicle, the 36-year-old walked away from the accident with only minor injuries after being checked over as emergency services attended the scene. In an astonishing show of resilience, McClean didn't let the scare stop him and made it to training later that day once his car was removed. He even took to the pitch for Wrexham 's important League One match against Birmingham City at the Racecourse Ground the next night, which ended in a 1-1 draw. McClean has now opened up about the incident, acknowledging he was fortunate to avoid more serious consequences. Discussing the ordeal during the latest instalment of the ' Welcome to Wrexham ' docuseries, McClean said: "It was a really foggy morning and it was hard to see. I thought I had more road than I did. I came out from behind a lorry and the roundabout just appeared. "For the next five seconds it was just a blur. Then the car stopped and there's all this smoke coming out of the car. The door was quite wedged and I was banging it to get it open." Reflecting on the seriousness of the incident, he added: "I just see it as there's bigger things ahead for me and it just wasn't my time. I was saved that day. It was a scary experience, but it just shows you how quickly things can change." McClean's wife Erin also expressed her alarm upon hearing about the accident via a text from her husband, with whom she shares four children. "I got a message from James saying he'd just been in a crash and he sent me a picture of the car," she said. "I didn't believe it. "My heart just started racing and then I rang him straight away. He answered and I was like, 'Are you hurt?' He was like, 'I'm actually okay.' I just jumped in the car and went straight to Wrexham. He came out and was like, 'I'm going to training.'" McClean previously exposed the vile taunts that Erin faced online after the accident. Taking to Instagram following his appearance against Birmingham, he posted: "Now that the game is out of the way, to address yesterday. An experience I never wish to encounter again. "I am blessed and thankful I managed to walk away with minor injuries and return home to my family, though much to the disappointment of some smelly scruffy pathetic creatures that messaged my wife online. Thank you for the messages of support." McClean made the move to Wrexham from Wigan Athletic for an undisclosed sum in the summer of 2023, having previously played in the Premier League with Sunderland and West Bromwich Albion. He has been instrumental in helping the club, which is owned by Hollywood stars Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney, secure automatic promotion in the past two seasons, propelling them from League Two to the Championship. Join our new WhatsApp community and receive your daily dose of Mirror Football content. We also treat our community members to special offers, promotions, and adverts from us and our partners. If you don't like our community, you can check out any time you like. If you're curious, you can read our Privacy Notice. Sign up to our newsletter! Wrexham is the Game is great new way to get top-class coverage Wrexham AFC is the arguably the fastest-growing club in the world at the moment thanks to a certain Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney. The Dragons have achieved two consecutive promotions and are cheered on by crowds from not only North Wales but also from all over the globe, thanks to the success of the Disney+ documentary 'Welcome to Wrexham'. But does it have a dedicated, quality source of information piped through to your inbox each week, free of ads but packed with informed opinion, analysis and even a little bit of fun each week? That's where Wrexham is the Game steps in... Available every Wednesday, it provides all the insights you need to be a top red. And for a limited time, a subscription to 'Wrexham is the Game' will cost fans just £15 for the first year.
Wales Online
12 hours ago
- Automotive
- Wales Online
James McClean's chilling car crash revelation as Wrexham star breaks silence on ordeal
James McClean's chilling car crash revelation as Wrexham star breaks silence on ordeal Wrexham captain James McClean has candidly discussed how he narrowly avoided serious injury in a car crash on his way to training, describing the experience as 'scary' Wrexham captain James McClean has reflected on how close he came to serious injury after a car crash (Image:) Wrexham captain James McClean has opened up about how he narrowly avoided serious injury after crashing his car. The former Republic of Ireland international was on his way to training in the city on the morning of January 22 this year when his Audi RS6 hit a roundabout near Wrexham Golf Club. The 36-year-old underwent medical checks after his car was left severely damaged, but miraculously emerged relatively unscathed himself as police and fire crews attended the scene. Undeterred by the frightening experience, McClean later attended training as planned after his car was taken away by a recovery vehicle. And he was even well enough to play in a crucial League One clash between Wrexham and rivals Birmingham City at the Racecourse Ground the following evening. While McClean was left with only minor injuries, he has now revealed how he was lucky to escape serious harm after admitting "I was saved that day." He lifted the lid on what happened in scenes aired as part of the latest episode of the Welcome to Wrexham documentary. "It was a really foggy morning and it was hard to see," McClean said. "I thought I had more road than I did. I came out from behind a lorry and the roundabout just appeared. For the next five seconds it was just a blur. "Then the car stopped and there's all this smoke coming out of the car. The door was quite wedged and I was banging it to get it open." Article continues below Wrexham's James McClean was involved in a car crash on his way to training in January (Image: Instagram/macajw ) Reflecting on how severe the incident could have been, he added: "I just see it as there's bigger things ahead for me and it just wasn't my time. I was saved that day. It was a scary experience, but it just shows you how quickly things can change." McClean's wife Erin, with whom he shares four children, also spoke out about how concerned she was after learning of the crash via a text from her husband. Watch Welcome to Wrexham season 4 on Disney+ This article contains affiliate links, we will receive a commission on any sales we generate from it. Learn more from £4.99 Disney+ Get Disney+ here Product Description Welcome to Wrexham is back on Disney+ for a fourth season. Fans can watch the series with a £4.99 monthly plan, or get 12 months for the price of 10 by paying for a year upfront. "I got a message from James saying he'd just been in a crash and he sent me a picture of the car," she said. "I didn't believe it. My heart just started racing and then I rang him straight away. "He answered and I was like, 'Are you hurt?'. He was like, 'I'm actually okay'. I just jumped in the car and went straight to Wrexham. He came out and was like, 'I'm going to training.'" McClean previously disclosed how Erin was targeted with unpleasant messages on social media in the immediate aftermath of the crash. Posting on Instagram after starring in Wrexham's 1-1 draw with Birmingham, he said: "Now that the game is out of the way, to address yesterday. An experience I never wish to encounter again. Sign up to our newsletter! Wrexham is the Game is great new way to get top-class coverage Wrexham AFC is the arguably the fastest-growing club in the world at the moment thanks to a certain Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney. The Dragons have achieved two consecutive promotions and are cheered on by crowds from not only North Wales but also from all over the globe, thanks to the success of the Disney+ documentary 'Welcome to Wrexham'. But does it have a dedicated, quality source of information piped through to your inbox each week, free of ads but packed with informed opinion, analysis and even a little bit of fun each week? That's where Wrexham is the Game steps in... Available every Wednesday, it provides all the insights you need to be a top red. And for a limited time, a subscription to 'Wrexham is the Game' will cost fans just £15 for the first year. Sign up for Wrexham is the Game here Article continues below "I am blessed and thankful I managed to walk away with minor injuries and return home to my family, though much to the disappointment of some smelly scruffy pathetic creatures that messaged my wife online. Thank you for the messages of support." McClean joined Wrexham from Wigan Athletic for an undisclosed fee in the summer of 2023 after playing in the Premier League with Sunderland and West Bromwich Albion earlier in his career. He has helped the club, owned by Hollywood actors Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney, achieve automatic promotion in the last two seasons, rising from League Two to the Championship.
Irish Independent
6 days ago
- Sport
- Irish Independent
‘Our long-held dream is now becoming reality' - Louth GAA officially launch new stadium build
Amongst those present were Lar Uachtaráin John Horan, who Chaired the Stadium Development Committee for the last number of years, Louth County Council Chief Executive David Conway, David Rogers, Chief Executive of the successful project contractors, the Ganson Group, local TDs and councillors and Gaels from clubs throughout the county. Louth County Chairperson Sean McClean, described the evening as 'not just a significant occasion, but a defining moment in the story of Louth GAA'. 'This evening marks more than the launch of a stadium - it marks the beginning of a new chapter,' said Mr McClean addressing those in attendance. 'A chapter where vision meets action, where community spirit meets ambition, and where history meets its future. 'Our long-held dream is now becoming reality. For years, decades even, we in Louth GAA have depended on the generosity on our clubs and neighbours for the use of their grounds for our games. We have spoken about the need for a true home. A place that reflects the passion and potential of Louth GAA, a modern stadium that reflects who we are: a county rich in tradition, talent, and untapped potential. 'We've played our hearts out without a facility to match the fire in our bellies and yet, we've persevered. We've built teams, we've won hearts and now, with plans in motion, construction underway and community energy driving us forward, we are building a home. "The vision is finally becoming a reality. 'This new stadium is more than a structure of steel and stone. It is a symbol. A symbol of belief - belief in our players, our coaches, our youth, our supporters and our future. 'It is the beating heart of Louth's sporting dreams. It's where generations of players will rise, legends will be made, and young people will learn about teamwork, pride, and resilience. It's not just a place to play - it's a place to belong. Appointed contractors The County Chairperson confirmed that a Louth based company have been appointed to deliver the project. ADVERTISEMENT Learn more "After a thorough and carefully considered process, we are proud to officially announce that local company, the Ganson Group, has been selected as the construction partner for Louth GAA in delivering our new state-of-the-art stadium,' said Mr McClean. "The Ganson Group, founded in 2004 by Paul McQuaid and David Rogers, has grown into one of Ireland's most respected and trusted construction firms. Many of you will undoubtedly recognise David's name - he has been a dedicated supporter and prominent figure within Louth GAA for many years, contributing both on and off the field to the local sporting community. 'His passion, commitment and leadership are reflected not only in his involvement with Louth GAA but also in the remarkable growth and success of the Ganson Group. 'Over the past two decades, the company has built an exceptional reputation for delivering projects of the highest quality across a wide range of sectors, including healthcare, education, residential, commercial, and civil infrastructure. 'They are renowned for their ability to complete complex developments on time, within budget, and to the very highest standards - qualities that have earned them respect and recognition across the industry. 'We are absolutely delighted to welcome the Ganson Group on board for this project. With David, Paul and their experienced, professional team leading the way, we have every confidence that this partnership will deliver exceptional results. We look forward to working closely together and to achieving something truly special for our community.' Two Phase Project Ganson Group CEO David Rogers confirmed the stadium will be delivered in two phases. Phase 1 will begin on June 19 with a completion date by the end of September 2026. It will include the seated main stand and pitch, the entranceways, auxiliary buildings, floodlights with an initial capacity of 6000. Games can be played at the stadium at the completion of phase one. The second phase will see the standing terraces and training pitches built and the final capacity of the new stadium will be 14,000. The project is expected to cost 24 million euro. Depending on financing, with the importance of securing funding from the Large Scale Sports Infrastructure Fund (LSSIF) mentioned, Phase 2 will commence in November /December 2025. The precast frame for the main stand will commence in early July 2025 and be completed, including the ancillary block, by the end of October 2025. Prunty Pitches are confirmed to start on site on July 31 and will have the main pitch complete ready for the maintenance programme to commence in October 2025 'It's an honour' The current chairperson of St Kevin's GAC in Philipstown, Mr Rogers, when asked if it was a proud day as a Louth man to be leading the construction of the new county stadium said: 'It's an honour to be honest with you. To be allowed to do it is an honour. 'We do a lot of work all over the country, North and South and to do this project, it's a legacy we're going to leave behind us.' Considering where the county is on the pitch, a first Leinster Senior Football Championship title in 68 years, the U20s winning the Leinster crown for the first time in 44 years, the Minors getting to a Leinster final, the Ladies winning a Leinster title and the Hurlers winning Division 4 of the Allianz Hurling League, the timing for the Ganson Group, Mr Rogers acknowledged, couldn't have been better: 'Absolutely. It just works out well. Everything is going well on the field, the infrastructure is there [for the stadium] and we are going to get it built and it's the right time to build it.'
The 42
01-06-2025
- Sport
- The 42
'He's a player of interest... a character that could help us' - Ireland boss open to James McClean return
HEIMIR HALLGRÍMSSON SAYS James McClean could play a part in the Republic of Ireland squad for the World Cup qualifying campaign. The international boss confirmed discussions have taken place with the 36-year-old while in Derry recently, and that the 36-year-old would be considered for selection after the upcoming friendlies with Senegal and Luxembourg. Hallgrímsson's policy for selecting his current squad was to allow as many of his Championship players as much time off as possible. One of those who the Ireland manager couldn't do without was Robbie Brady, citing a dearth of left backs available to him. Advertisement Shamrock Rovers defender Josh Honohan earned a call-up this week and McClean, who departed the scene with 103 caps, could make a dramatic return by the time qualifiers for USA/Canada/Mexico comes around in September. McClean will play in England's second tier next season after securing another promotion with Wrexham. He initially announced his Ireland retirement in 2023 after dropping down to League Two with the Welsh club. 'That was my understanding when I came. He was out. Obviously, we've spoken about him a little bit, especially when I went to Derry,' Hallgrímsson said. 'He is a player of interest, really. Again, a character that could help us at some point. I think this camp, we were more looking at younger players, but obviously we look at him like everyone else. 'If he is better than the ones we have already, I would have no problem with selecting him. And I've said before, age is not an issue for me if a player is 16 and better than the ones before or 35. It really doesn't matter if they are better than the ones we have. 'I don't know the story behind his decision and what happened and all of that. I read up on his history and all the things around him. Interesting, shows his strength in character as well, reading up on him. 'Yeah, probably the change was to help this team to develop and progress. And here you have it. So maybe that's a good decision for the club to take him and for him to go there. And he is probably now a legend at that club (Wrexham) as well. Correct? 'In regards to us, I don't know him personally. I haven't spoken to him, but just caught up on him, seen him play. Like I said, what is he, 36? So he's not getting any younger. But if he's better than the ones we have, I would have no problems with selecting him. Again, it would have been good to have camps to call him in and work with him for a week.'
Irish Daily Mirror
31-05-2025
- Sport
- Irish Daily Mirror
Hallgrimsson's shock message to James McClean ahead of World Cup qualifiers
Heimir Hallgrímsson has opened the door to a sensational James McClean return to the green jersey. The Ireland manager explained that he hadn't considered the Wrexham captain because he was under the impression that McClean had quit international football. However, the Derry native stated last year that he would find a call-up 'a hard one to turn down' - while he added: 'Never say never.' Hallgrímsson is short on left-back options, with Robbie Brady currently the number one pick for that role. Shamrock Rovers defender Josh Honohan has been drafted in for the upcoming friendlies at home to Senegal and away to Luxembourg. McClean will be back in the Championship next season after winning back-to-back promotions with Wrexham - and Hallgrímsson said: 'That was my understanding when I came - he was out. 'Obviously, we've spoken about him a little bit, especially when I went to Derry. 'He is a player of interest, really. Again, a character that could help us at some point. 'I think this camp, we were more looking at younger players, but obviously we look at him like everyone else. 'If he is better than the ones we have already, I would have no problem with selecting him. And I've said before, age is not an issue for me if a player is 16 and better than the ones before or 35. It really doesn't matter if they are better than the ones we have.' Hallgrímsson hasn't watched the Welcome to Wrexham documentary, but he has an idea of what 103-time capped McClean can bring to a dressing room. 'I don't know the story behind his decision (to drop down to League Two) and what happened and all of that. I read up on his history and all the things around him,' said the Ireland manager. 'Interesting, it shows his strength in character as well, reading up on him. 'Yeah, probably the change (of club) was to help this team to develop and progress. And here you have it. So maybe that's a good decision for the club to take him and for him to go there. 'And he is probably now a legend at that club as well. Correct? 'In regards to us, I don't know him personally. I haven't spoken to him, but just caught up on him, seen him play. 'Like I said, what is he, 36? So he's not getting any younger. But if he's better than the ones we have, I would have no problems with selecting him. 'Again, it would have been good to have camps to call him in and work with him for a week.' Another potential left-sided option is PEC Zwolle's Anselmo Garcia MacNulty. The former Ireland Under-21 defender played every single minute in the Eredivisie with his side last season and was watched by Hallgrímsson, but he only made the stand-by list for the June friendlies. 'I've seen a few games. He's a promising player. Now, the good thing for him is he's playing in a team that believes in him,' said the Icelander. 'He's playing every minute in a proper league. A different style than he's used to, so he's adapting to the style they are playing. 'A left-footed centre-back, we don't have many of those. But (he has) probably more chance of playing as a left-back, but he's not doing that at this stage. 'He can play both, so if you look to the future, definitely a guy that we will have our eye on.'
