The abuse James McClean receives from opposing fans has led to the Wrexham star being granted special permission to leave the pitch via the quickest route to the tunnel if he is substituted

Wrexham midfielder James McClean has been granted permission to leave the field via the shortest route possible in order to reduce the risk of him being abused by rival fans

As reported by The Daily Mail, a letter from the EFL has given McClean permission to leave the pitch via the shortest route to the tunnel. Since the 19/20 season, players who are being substituted have to leave the pitch via the nearest touchline or goal line in a bid to speed up the match and cut down time wasting.

James McClean has been given special permission to make a beeline for the tunnel when leaving the pitch, to avoid being abused for refusing to wear a poppy. The EFL have taken special measures to reduce ‘hate crimes’ following a number of incidents involving the Wrexham winger.

Republic of Ireland and Wrexham midfielder James McClean has been granted special permission to leave the pitch by the quickest available route to avoid being targeted for his anti-poppy wearing stance.

James McClean will be allowed to make a sharp exit up the tunnel in future to avoid fan abuse for his refusal to wear a poppy. Special measures have been taken by the Football League to try to reduce ‘hate crimes’ given the number of incidents that have occurred involving the Wrexham wide man.