The Irish Times understands that Derry City sought to terminate McClean’s contract this week, claiming he has been incapacitated by a hip injury.

City recruited the Belfast native in November 2024 after he left Larne, but he leaves having won just once in seven matches in all competitions.

James McClean made nearly 600 appearances during his time in England and was capped more than 100 times for the Republic of Ireland.

The 35-year-old, Ireland’s fifth most capped men’s player with 103, was due to be examined by medical staff on Wednesday

Declan Rice has suggested James McClean's criticism "might be a bit of bitterness towards me not playing for Ireland"

The 33-year-old Wrexham footballer revealed last year that he had been diagnosed with autism.

Adah Idah had put Ireland ahead, but they were unable to hold on to the lead