“I’ve become frustrated and very disappointed reading some of the silly and stupid comments made by Kenny Shiels in the media,” McClean told the Derry Journal.

“What right or what credentials does Kenny Shiels hold to make such ridiculous comments on international football?

“For me, playing in the Aviva Stadium in Dublin in front of thousands of people and wearing that green jersey means so much to me and my team-mates.

“I feel very proud and very fortunate to have been given an opportunity to wear that jersey. I do everything in my power to give 100% when wearing it, so how dare Kenny Shiels make such ridiculous comments when he knows very little about playing international football.”