Wrexham's James McClean is often viewed as a divisive figure among football fans because of his stance of not wearing a poppy around Remembrance Sunday.

However, there were extraordinary scenes as the Red Dragons took on Wigan Athletic on Sunday when both sets of supporters sang his name in praise.

The former Republic of Ireland international made 171 appearances over two spells with the Latics before leaving to join the north Wales side for a reported fee of £250,000 in August 2023.

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The 35-year-old is a popular figure with Wigan fans after lifting the League One title with the club in the 2021/22 season.

The Wrexham skipper therefore received a warm response from both the home and away supporters at the Racecourse.

The player's actions after providing the assist for Steven Fletcher's late winner really underlined the depth of his connection with his former club.

Fans picked up on his refusal to celebrate after a clip of the goal was shared by Wrexham on social media.

Posting on X, formerly Twitter, Jez Lee said: "Fair play, McClean not celebrating out of respect to his old club."

The footage also showed McClean consoling his former teammate Callum McManaman by putting an arm round his shoulder.

Another user said: "(He) also clapped their fans at end of game but all that doesn’t fit with the narrative the media and other social media warriors like to pedal."

Posting on Instagram after the match, McClean hailed the response he received from both sets of supporters.

He said: "Big 3 points to end the year, support as always top notch. A special thank you also to the @laticsofficial fans for their reception today."

The mutual respect was in stark contrast to the unpleasant chants McClean endured during Wrexham's Boxing Day victory over Blackpool.

It came after some traveling supporters were heard singing "James McClean is a terrorist" and "F*** the Pope and the IRA" as his family watched from the stands.

The Tangerines were previously fined £35,000 after sectarian chants were aimed at the winger during his time at Wigan.

It's understood the latest incident was not immediately reported to the FA following the match but is now being looked into.