Gillingham FC Forum

I see McClean the Sunderland and Ireland player refused to wear a shirt with a poppy on for yesterday's match with Everton. I'm not sure if he is being disrespectful or if he is right to stand by his personal beliefs. I suppose that is why so many brave people gave their lives, so that we have freedom of speech. On the other hand, it is beholden on professional footballers to set an example to young people. Be interesting to hear others views.

Hmmm... didn't know this. Maybe his poppy shirt got ruined and he only had a regular shirt to wear? I dunno. Regardless of what we believe to be right, those who fought for us, fought so we are free to do what we want to do. It may not turn out how we want it to.

Seems it was his personal choice; the same as it being his choice to change from Northern Ireland at youth level to republic at senior. Next stop Celtic I would guess.

it is true a lot of celtic supporters and their fans dont like poppy day or its background.

Once again a situation of very very confused people.

All religions fought together during the wars, when a man sat beside another man in a trench I do not think religion crossed his mind other than dear god keep me alive.

A small minded young man who hasnt yet grown up enough to recognise just exactly what defending our country meant. That under Nazi rule his religion would not even be allowed never mind tolerated or accepted.

I dont feel anger towards him, as a young man I had ideals which I found out later to be flawed and useless, but a shame that he feels the need to make such a big political point when in fact his point is without depth or value.

They died to give us free speech. The least we can do is use it to give thanks for just 2 minutes/hours a year. If true, he doesn't deserve to enjoy the life he has been afforded.

It's all down to personal choice! Same for everyone! I never buy or wear a poppy, again personal choice!

Agreed Mark, it is personal choice. But why do you not supoport the poppy appeal? McClean is a misguided young .Mn that thinks he is making a political statement. What is your reason for not doing so?

Strange choice Mark; as Posh says can you explain why.

I don't and never have given money to any charity!

Fair enough Mark; i just hope you never need any help or treatment from anyone or thing financed in part or full by a charity.