Wrexham take on Blackpool tomorrow in an absolute must-win fixture for the Red Dragons, but their opponents have been handed an important warning ahead of the game.
After yet another frustrating draw on Friday against Bristol Rovers, and another win for Wycombe Wanderers, Wrexham have lost their advantage in the automatic promotion race.
Phil Parkinson’s men no longer have their fate in their own hands heading into the final three games of the season, and will be hoping for some favours from Charlton, Leyton Orient, and Stockport in Wycombe’s final run-in.
Next up is a trip to the seaside to face Blackpool, and while Steve Bruce has praised Wrexham’s journey, the Red Dragons will expect no help from the Tangerines on Monday afternoon.
Blackpool release important statement for Wrexham game
But, one thing no one associated with either club wants to see on Monday is a repeat of the abhorrent abuse that was directed towards James McClean back in 2023.
Blackpool have released a statement (via the Blackpool Gazette), reading: “Ahead of the upcoming fixture against Wrexham on Easter Monday, the Club reminds supporters of the zero-tolerance policy towards abuse, harassment and discriminatory behaviour/chanting.
“Any form of racially biased, homophobic or sexist abuse, harassment or discriminatory behaviour will not be tolerated. Anyone found to have taken part in such activity may face arrest, prosecution, confiscation of their season ticket and being banned from all future games.
“As a reminder, the club was found guilty of misconduct and was subsequently placed under an FA Action Plan and fined £35,000 back in 2023 due to use of discriminatory language and poor behaviour by a small section of supporters.
“Should incidents like these occur again, the club is at risk of increased financial sanctions and a further FA Action Plan.
“It is everyone’s responsibility to ensure we all have an enjoyable matchday experience, free from persecution and discrimination.
“Further information can be found on the Club’s customer charter. Love Football. Protect The Game.”
- READ MORE: Phil Parkinson shares how he really feels about promotion after Wrexham’s draw vs Bristol Rovers
What happened between Blackpool and James McClean in 2023?
McClean has often been the target of abuse and criticism from neutrals and rival fans for his outspoken views on the United Kingdom, particularly his rejection of the monarchy and Remembrance Day, with the Wrexham star refusing to wear a poppy on his shirt.
Blackpool fans fired sectarian abuse and offensive chants towards the winger in 2023, leading to that severe action from the FA.
McClean can be known to wind up opponents, of course, but no one should have to suffer the kind of abuse he did when he was playing for Wigan Athletic at Bloomfield Road two years ago.
Just this season, McClean was at the heart of a clash with Shrewsbury supporters, which got him in big trouble with the EFL at the time.
With everything on the line for Wrexham on Monday, the skipper will need to keep his head in the game and ignore any noise from the Blackpool fans if he is to lead the Red Dragons to glory and, hopefully, promotion.