James McClean may return to Championship action this weekend against one of his former clubs when Wrexham travel to Stoke City.
Phil Parkinson seemingly received a message from McClean during the international window, as the former Republic of Ireland international posted a workout to his social media showing the hard work he was putting into his fitness during the break.
The former Derry City player is someone who is willing to let his opinion be known should he feel it appropriate to do so, and he has taken to social media to do so once again.
Wrexham’s captain was critical about the actions of a Championship rival during the international break; one he may not face until April next year.
James McClean not pleased with Finn Azaz’s actions for the Republic of Ireland
The Wrexham captain appeared to be watching the Republic of Ireland’s 1-0 win over Armenia in the World Cup qualifiers to keep them alive for the competition next summer.
While he will have been pleased that the nation he used to represent, despite McClean still being capable of playing for Ireland, earned their first win of the campaign.
However, McClean appeared frustrated on his Instagram story feed during the match. He seemed to have a critical reaction to Finn Azaz’s behaviour after being headbutted by Tigran Barseghyan in the 52nd minute.
The Armenian international had a moment of madness as he headbutted the Southampton player, earning him a red card, allowing Ireland to go on to score to earn the victory.
McClean was critical of Azaz, despite not mentioning him by name, for lying prone on the pitch as the referee decided whether to send off Barseghyan, as he posted: “Still going to be a red card with VAR in play without falling down holding your face like Canelo just landed one flush; embarrassing behaviour.”
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James McClean’s view on the Ireland result
The 36-year-old did not just post about the Azaz moment on Instagram, as he continued after the game by posting the scoreline of the match.
He is a proud former Irish international who represented his country on 103 occasions, with one of his most memorable moments being when McClean scored against Wales in a World Cup qualifier.
Wrexham’s captain is hopeful that there is still a chance for his country to reach the World Cup; however, it appears a draw against Portugal and a victory in Hungary are required to secure progression, with this being a tough ask due to the quality in the Iberian nation.
He said: “All about winning, let’s hope there is something to play for in Hungary next month besides just pride.”