According to The Sun, Stoke City have signed controversial Ireland international James McClean, in a deal worth up to £6million with add-ons included. McClean has joined the Championship outfit from West Brom on a four-year deal to replace Xherdan Shaqiri, who has moved to Liverpool.
Both Stoke and West Brom were relegated from the Premier League last season, alongside Wales-based Swansea City. The 29-year-old left-winger has always split opinion among supporters, clashing with opposition fans and most recently, refusing to attend West Brom’s training camp in Scotland.
Nevertheless, McClean has become the fourth arrival at Bet365 Stadium as Stoke prepare for their first stint in the Championship since 2008. Other signings include Peter Etebo, Benik Afobe and goalkeeper Adam Federici.
The left-footed Irishman has scored 10 times and has 60 caps for his national team. Like Shaqiri, the versatile McClean can play across a number of positions. In fact, he can be deployed on the left-wing, the left side of the midfield and as an attacking midfielder. McClean made 14 Premier League starts and 16 substitute appearances last season, scoring once.
Furthermore, McClean has prior Championship experience, having played 73 games across two seasons for Wigan Athletic. He scored nine goals before his move to West Brom. McClean made a total of 99 appearances for the Baggies, scoring four times. Unlike Shaqiri, who has a poor work rate fails to contribute defensively, McClean fulfils his duties on both sides of the pitch. His aerial presence will also offer Gary Rowett’s side stability as the Potters eye an swift return to the Premier League.
Having made over 350 appearances in his career so far, McClean will add ample experience to the new-look Stoke side. Joining the Potters is a shrewd move, following the loss of Shaqiri. In fact, the former West Brom star could play a vital role for Stoke next season. His controversies aside, James McClean should be judged as per his performances on the pitch.
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With an important season ahead for Rowett and Stoke, signing McClean seems to be a brilliant piece of business. His talent, skills and experience will uplift the club’s performances on the whole, and hopefully, fire them back into the English top-flight.
