[Link] James McClean

I don't mind him so much.

But there are definitely better, cheaper and far less controversial footballers out there.

 

McClean is "controversial" in the way Lennon was "controversial".

For being an Irish Catholic.

 

Controversial in the sense that he's sparking debate, emotion, outrage, disagreement etc from the media and the wider public. You can't deny that, regardless of whether you agree or disagree with what he says and does.

 

By that assessment, almost every player is "controversial" then.

 

How so?

 

Just take a look at any of the player threads on here, and the subsequent comments

 

That's on here, amongst a group of Celtic fans. Plus, when we're talking about players it's often the posters opinion that is 'controversial' as opposed to the player himself.

We could have a massive debate about whether Callum McGregor is good enough for Celtic based on his performances and his ability.
That's not the same as having certain opinions/beliefs and taking a strong stance on them (like James McClean), or doing a series of despicable things on and off the pitch (like El-Hadji Diouf) or a combination of the two (like Joey Barton).

 

McLean I wouldn't say is anywhere near as "controversial" as Lennon.

It's others' opinions in regards to McLean that make him "controversial" - he has only exercised his *-given right NOT to wear a poppy, that is what folk have the issue with.

 

That's got to be the main issue, anything else is a sideshow..

 

Lennon only really became a controversial character when he moved to Celtic, though, and was targeted by certain people because of that. Did he get much grief from NI fans prior to signing for us?

As you say, McClean is/was quite right to take a stand for what he believes in. But doing so was always going to attract negative attention because so many people view it a mark of disrespect, while not actually considering what the poppy might represent to someone like McClean.

He actually wrote a letter to someone who condemned him for not wearing it. It might have actually been Dave Whelan.

 

The point I'm getting at is Neil Lennon has always been the type of player he is, in yer face no-nonsense kinda guy, McLean isn't.

But aye, Lennon's "controversy" levels went through the roof when he signed for us - hence why he had to chuck NI.

 

McClean wouldn't be an upgrade on what we already have. I'd like a player in the mould of paddy Roberts brought in when he leaves next month, McClean isn't that type of player.

 

Surprised people wouldn't take him. Think he's a really solid player with a great work ethic. I think he'd be good for us. Although I concede that it probably isn't realistic due to transfer fees & wages.

 

He is not *...

 

Very good skillful committed player - would definitely improve the team

 

I don't think they are similar players either. Similar as in career going nowhere and could take the league by storm.

 

Club open to all eh?

 

Don't be doing that to me, Dev. You know what I mean.

 

That saying is a load of * to be fair.