McClean leaves Derry City after contract dispute

James McClean says Derry City "will always hold a special place in my heart" after he and the club mutually agreed to terminate his contract with immediate effect.

McClean returned to his hometown club from Wrexham in January but had not been included in a matchday squad since July.

Earlier this month, the 37-year-old described an earlier attempt by the League of Ireland club to terminate his contract as "incomprehensible".

But in a joint-statement released on Wednesday, the club and McClean said they are "satisfied with the outcome and are pleased to move forward constructively".

"I am pleased that we have reached a resolution to settle these matters," said McClean.

"While my return to the club did not work out as I had hoped, Derry City FC will always hold a special place in my heart.

"I want to thank the fans for their support, and I wish the squad, the management, staff, and the supporters the very best for the future."

McClean also wished the team luck in the FAI Cup final against Waterford on 8 November.

Derry City chairman Philip O'Doherty thanked McClean "for his dedication to his hometown club".

"His achievements extend far beyond the Brandywell; amassing 103 senior caps for the Republic of Ireland is a remarkable milestone, and we want to formally acknowledge his immense contribution to Irish football as a whole," added O'Doherty.

More to follow.