James McClean has revealed he won’t be attending the FAI Cup final between Derry City and Waterford, saying he has ‘no interest’ in being at the Aviva Stadium that day.

The Candystripes reached their third final in the last five years after beating Galway United 2-0 in the semi-final and will face Waterford in just over 10 days’ time on Sunday, November 8.

This cup run has come amidst a disappointing and controversial season for Derry, who sacked manager Tiernan Lynch after a poor run of form as well as the ever outspoken James McClean.

McClean and the club have been at loggerheads since the summer as Derry City reportedly tried to cut McClean’s contract on medical grounds, with the former Ireland international putting out a statement through the PFAI describing the move as ‘incomprehensible’ and ‘setting a dangerous precedent.’

That move severed nearly all ties between Derry City and James McClean, with the club’s statement on McClean’s controversial mental health comments also not helping build bridges between the two.

Speaking on RTÉ’s Inside Sport ahead of his new book Walls being released, McClean was asked if he’ll be at the FAI Cup Final Sunday week. ‘I have no interest’ he bluntly replied.

When asked further if he’ll even watch the game from home, he revealed he has already made plans. ‘No, I’m taking my son over to Old Trafford to watch United.

‘It is [painful], but as I said, I’ve come to terms with it. It is what it is. It’s sad. They all went and got their Cup final suits last week. There’s a good buzz and that, but I know I wasn’t going to be a part of it.

‘They could come to me tomorrow and say, you’re going to start the game, and you’re going to play the full 90 minutes. And I’d say, thanks but no thanks. The damage is done. You’ve made these last few months horrendous and let my reputation unfairly take a battering.’

Amid James McClean’s rift with the club, his brother Patrick has stepped up, recently captaining the side in Michael Duffy’s absence, and James McClean revealed his delight at his brother’s rise in popularity. ‘I would probably say my situation has made him more popular! Hating on me has made him more popular.

‘Nah, look, when all this was happening, I said to Patrick, “Look, this is not your fight. You’re in an awkward situation; you focus on yourself”.

‘He’s been outstanding. I think for the first time, Patrick is not James McClean’s brother. He’s finally being recognised as Patrick McClean, and that’s because he’s been outstanding.’