Updated at 22.46
WEST BROMWICH ALBION midfielder James McClean was given a formal warning on Monday after his celebration against Sunderland.
Former Sunderland star McClean appeared to taunt the travelling fans at the end of Albion’s 1-0 win in the Premier League on Saturday and his antics sparked an angry reaction from the Black Cats’ players.
Lee Cattermole and Danny Graham confronted McClean, who played for Sunderland between 2011 and 2013, before McClean was taken away by team-mate Craig Gardner.
Referee Martin Atkinson mentioned the incident in his official report, but did not see McClean’s initial clenched fist gesture to the Sunderland fans.
The FA studied the video and decided to warn the Republic of Ireland international, who had been jeered by the visiting fans during the game following his refusal to wear a Remembrance Day poppy on his shirt while playing for them against Everton in 2012.
McClean also refused to face the English flag while on West Brom’s American tour in the summer and was told by boss Tony Pulis he must show more respect.
The 26-year-old has already confirmed he will not wear a poppy while playing for the Baggies next month.
McClean has escaped a fine or suspension while both clubs have been reminded of their responsibilities following the melee which was sparked by McClean’s actions.
And what about Danny Graham for pushing McClean or the abuse that Sunderland fans shouted at McClean throughout the game? What’s the fines or warnings for them?
Funny thing was Lee Cattermore of all people lecturing!!
And if you know your history!!!
knob
My personal opinion is Sunderland were the club that gave him his chance and paycheque outside the loi. He should be a big enough man to get on with it and not infuriate them. There’s only one thing worse than a bad loser and that’s a bad winner. Suck it up princess.
did you read his personal opinion where he said he felt that Sunderland hung him out to dry…? and after getting dogs abuse for 90mins would you not want to show them some defiance? I know I would… fair play to the man for sticking up for what he believes in!
so because a club pays your wage you should act like an indentured slave and not question anything?
No I didn’t read his opinion. He has lots of opinions on lots of things. I don’t see how he could be hung out to dry. Football is a business. A business where cry babies like him earn in s day what some people earn in a year.
Absolute Tit
I think his poppy stance is honorable but this kind of crap doesn’t help his case