James McClean made his return to Ireland last night, in his 'second' Derry City debut, as his hometown club defeated Shamrock Rovers in the President's Cup final.
The 36-year-old - who signed from Wrexham - made a his presence felt with a 33rd-minute assist for Darragh Markey's goal in the 1-0 win at Tallaght Stadium.
After receiving abuse from the home crowd, McClean celebrated in front of them at the South Stand, and took aim on social media after the game, writing: ‘Getting called an orange b*****d from your fellow countrymen. Stay classy.'
However, it was pointed out that he posed for photos with Rovers fans after the game.
Speaking on the Cup win, McClean said: "It's obviously nice.
"Winning matches is what it's all about, isn't it? We've got bigger aspirations this season, but it's always nice to start with silverware, especially against a team that are seen as probably the favourites for the league this year. They're the team to beat because they're the reigning champions.
"To come here on their turf and get a win, I think it's a nice statement, but at the end of the day, there's a long way to go. We'll enjoy it tonight. But it's nice to get the win to start."
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1st February 2026
11:22am GMT
