Wrexham star James McClean has admitted to punching a Cardiff City supporter before last week's Carabao Cup tie, but insists he acted in self-defence. The 36-year-old former Republic of Ireland international issued a statement to talkSPORT detailing the altercation that occurred in the players' car park at the Racecourse Ground on 28 October.
McClean claims he was confronted by four male Cardiff fans upon arriving in his car. He said he initially ignored their verbal abuse but then responded, and when one of the men made a 'hostile move' towards him, he threw a punch. 'I wasn't waiting for him to make the first swing. So I did. Four men, one of me,' McClean told presenter Jim White.
Wrexham confirmed the incident was reported to the relevant authorities, though North Wales Police are not currently investigating. McClean was an unused substitute as Wrexham lost 2-1 to their Championship opponents, ending their Carabao Cup run.
Cardiff City secured a quarter-final tie against Premier League side Chelsea, with defender Perry Ng revealing the players' WhatsApp group 'was bouncing' at the draw. The match will take place in mid-December.
