James McClean will be allowed to make a sharp exit up the tunnel in future to avoid fan abuse for his refusal to wear a poppy.
Special measures have been taken by the Football League to try to reduce ‘hate crimes’ given the number of incidents that have occurred involving the Wrexham wide man. Ireland international McClean is regularly targeted for his anti-poppy stance, one instance of which included a Birmingham City fan throwing a hot drink at him back in September.
Current rules dictate that players must head around the side of the pitch if they are subbed after receiving treatment on the touchline. However, former West Brom and Wigan man McClean will be allowed to make a beeline for the tunnel via the quickest route available.
McClean, 35, is a Derry-born Irish Republican who says he is uncomfortable commemorating those who served in the British military. The EFL sent a letter to member clubs confirming that the rule change will apply to all those at risk of hateful abuse. 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. This process will help to reduce these incidents and also help to manage Mr McClean’s departure from the pitch without incident.”
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