Mcclean’s sorry for Stoke rant

IRELAND and Stoke star James Mcclean has issued a statement apologising to fans he labelled as ‘uneducated cavemen’.

Mcclean has been the subject of intense scrutiny for his refusal to wear a poppy, and received abuse from his own supporters in a game with Middlesborough last Saturday.

The incident prompted the 29-year-old to take to social media and hit back but after a warning from the FA, he last night stated: “A section of our supporters threatened and abused me because of my religious beliefs and upbringing.

“I am certain that no fairminded person would regard that as acceptable but I recognise that as a professional footballer, and therefore a role model, I’m expected to tolerate it.

“Whilst, I do not believe it is appropriate for me to apologise to those fans who abused me, I do want to whole-heartedly apologise to the vast majority of Stoke fans who, although they may have different views, are decent and respectful.”