Stoke City issued a statement on Tuesday morning saying that the club respects James McClean's right to not wear a Remembrance Day poppy in the upcoming games against Middlesbrough and Nottingham Forest.
The Ireland international has chosen to not wear a poppy during games for several years out of respect to the 13 people who were shot by British soldiers in Derry on Bloody Sunday in 1972.
"I know many people won’t agree with my decision or even attempt to gain an understanding of why I don’t wear a poppy," said McClean.
I accept that but I would ask people to be respectful of the choice I have made, just as I’m respectful of people who do choose to wear a poppy.
The club said that it will be supporting the Royal British Legion’s Poppy Appeal in the games on November 3rd and 10th.
"However, we recognise that the Poppy means different things to different individuals and communities and (like the Royal British Legion) do not believe that anybody should be forced or even pressured to wear the Poppy against their free will," said the club in a statement.
"James has informed us that he will not be wearing a Remembrance Day Poppy in our next two games. We respect his decision and his right to follow his own convictions."
McClean has received death threats in the past due to his stance regarding the poppy.
Photo by Harry Murphy/Sportsfile
