West Bromwich Albion have confirmed that manager Tony Pulis has spoken to Ireland winger James McClean about bowing his head and turning away when the British National Anthem was played before a recent pre-season friendly in the United States.
The Derry-born player was abused on social media as a result but Pulis said he had spoken to the summer signing and that he hoped a line has now been drawn under the issue.
In comments published on the club website, Pulis said: "I didn’t see the situation but I had a chat with him and explained what we do as a football club and the way we are and I think he’s fine with everything.
"We’ve got Northern Ireland lads in the squad and he’s been absolutely fantastic with them, and the way he’s mixed and integrated with the group has been brilliant.
"I’ve seen the pictures and he’s got to turn towards the flag like everybody else has and he recognises that.
"He thought he was OK to close his eyes and put his head down in respect of both anthems.
"The trouble is he’s got to face the flag."
James McClean sparks anger after turning his back on the British national anthem http://t.co/9ikborfyFP pic.twitter.com/cDCQ7CJcfQ
— MailOnline Sport (@MailSport) July 20, 2015
McClean was also on the end of abuse while at Wigan Athletic when he declined to wear the poppy. However, he wrote an open letter to his then-chairman Dave Whelan to explain his reasons. Pulis appeared to reference that.
"Obviously there has been a stigma around him and he doesn’t need to start that up again," he said.
"So hopefully we’ve nipped it in the bud and we can get on with our things and he can get on with his things.
"I think the fact he’s part of what we’re trying to do is important.
"We want him to be as open and honest as he possibly can within the group and the group want to be as open and honest as they can with him.
"It’s just about integrating him and him understanding the rules we work to at the club and we’re all together on and off the pitch.
"Whatever you ask him to do, he does. He’s trained with a smile on his face and he’s been really good around the place."
McClean joined West Brom at the end of last month to mark a return to the Premier League for the former Sunderland player.
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