An anonymous Twitter user from Belfast has used the social networking site to issue death threats to Sunderland star James McClean. Understandably, McClean took the decision to delete his twitter account to halt any further abuse. The abuse occurred after it was revealed that McClean was named as part of the Republic of Ireland squad for Euro 2012. Under the Good Friday Agreement, McClean is entitled to play for the Republic.
The Football Association of Ireland issued a statement which read: “It’s a pity it has come to this, but it is maybe in his best interests in the short term,” a spokesman said.
The death threats have no doubt overshadowed an otherwise positive news story as up until that point, McClean was receiving many well wishes and messages of support once the news broke. The support came from both sides of the border.