Republic of Ireland international James McClean returned to the DW Stadium in the summer of 2021, six years after leaving Latics. 

McClean, 33, began his career with Institute before joining Derry City in 2008. He scored 16 goals in 79 appearances during his three-year stay with his boyhood club before earning a move to the Premier League with Sunderland in August 2011. McClean scored his first Premier League goal against Latics in January 2012 and amassed over 50 appearances in his time at the Stadium of Light.

He joined Latics in 2013 and made his debut in the Community Shield Final at Wembley against Manchester United. He was named as the Club’s Player of the Year in the 2014/15 campaign, with his standout performances resulting in the forward returning to the top-flight with West Bromwich Albion. 

McClean spent three seasons with the Baggies before joining Stoke City in July 2018, where he would go on to win the Player of the Year in the 2019/20 campaign. He made a dream return to Latics, scoring on his second debut against Charlton Athletic in August 2021, before later making his 100th appearance for the Club in the 3-2 victory at Fleetwood Town.

A consistent and reliable performer for Leam Richardson’s side, McClean contributed to nine goals and seven assists to inspire Latics to promotion to the Championship. As recognition for his immense efforts over the course of the season, McClean was named in the EFL Team of the Season alongside Latics teammate Jack Whatmough. 

A proud Derry man, McClean has been able to add to his tally for the Republic of Ireland during his time at the DW Stadium, with his current 94 caps making him the seventh most-capped player in their history.