Former Stoke City player of the year James McClean has not had a dream homecoming at Derry City, who have thanked their legal team for helping to get him through the exit door

James McClean's return to Derry City is over after negotiating a termination of his contract with immediate effect.

The former Stoke City midfielder, now aged 37, moved back to Northern Ireland in January after a successful two-and-a-half years helping Wrexham win promotion to the Championship.

It was seen as a dream homecoming to end his career but it has turned into a nightmare. He has been beset by an injury to his hip and there was implied criticism of manager Tiernan Lynch via social media. Lynch left in August but McClean remained ostracised and he has not made an appearance since July.

The two parties have now cut ties and wished each other well and it remains to be seen if McClean, who released his autobiography last week, will now retire.

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McClean said in a statement: “I am pleased that we have reached a resolution to settle these matters.

"While my return to the club did not work out as I had hoped, Derry City FC will always hold a special place in my heart. I want to thank the fans for their support, and I wish the squad, the management, staff, and the supporters the very best for the future. In particular, I want to wish the team the best of luck in the FAI Cup Final against Waterford FC.”

Derry City tipped their cap to their legal team for getting to this position.

A statement on their website says: "Derry City FC wishes to acknowledge the extensive efforts of Joe Jeffers SC and Stuart Gilhooly SC in helping to bring this matter to a satisfactory conclusion.”

Chairman Philip O'Doherty added: “On behalf of everyone at Derry City, I want to thank James for his dedication to his hometown club.

"His achievements extend far beyond the Brandywell; amassing 103 senior caps for the Republic of Ireland is a remarkable milestone, and we want to formally acknowledge his immense contribution to Irish football as a whole. We wish him the very best for the future."