James McClean was again in the public eye last weekend, after he chose to ignore "God Save The Queen" by closing his eyes and bowing his head when the rest of his teammates turned to face the flag.
This wasn't the first time McClean has caused controversy over his beliefs, as he previously refused to wear a poppy on his jersey and was the victim of a lot of hate, to the point of death threats, via social media before he defended his stance in an open letter.
West Brom boss Tony Pulis was asked for his opinion on the incident, and while he claims he didn't notice it at the time, he has revealed that he has had a private chat with McClean to remind him of his responsibilities with the club.
I didn’t see the situation but I had a chat with him and explained what we do as a football club and the way we are and I think he’s fine with everything.
I’ve seen the pictures and he’s got to turn towards the flag like everybody else has and he recognises that. He thought he was OK to close his eyes and put his head down in respect of both anthems.
The trouble is he’s got to face the flag.
Pulis then continued to discuss the "stigma" that surrounds the former Sunderland and Wigan winger and expressed his desire to move on from this latest incident:
Obviously there has been a stigma around him and he doesn't need to start that up again. So hopefully we've nipped it in the bud and we can get on with our things and he can get on with his things. I think the fact he's part of what we're trying to do is important.
West Brom fans will be hoping that James McClean will be in the news for the right reasons this coming season, but he's got a battle on his hands to secure Premier League playing time with the Baggies.
via WBA.co.uk
