‘Speedy James McClean’ immortalised in song
Sunderland fanatic and folk singer Dave Murray who has dedicated a song to Derry's speedy winger James McClean. (2601DW1)
He’s taken the English Premier League by storm since swapping Foyleside for Wearside and now a singing Sunderland fan has immortalised Derry’s rising soccer star James McClean in song.
He’s taken the English Premier League by storm since swapping Foyleside for Wearside and now a singing Sunderland fan has immortalised Derry’s rising soccer star James McClean in song.
Sunderland fanatic and folk singing troubadour Dave Murray, more frequently known as The Makem Folk Singer, says his ode to the Creggan Man - entitled ‘Speedy James McClean’ - is testament to the growing rapport between the Derry youngster and Sunderland fans.
“We just love James, he gives 120% every time he plays in the red and white stripes at the Stadium of Light.
“He is a real favourite and we really think James will be one of the biggest players in the Premiership such is his football talent,” Dave told the ‘Journal’ this week.
Sunderland’s revival in recent weeks has coincided with both the emergence of McClean on the Premier League stage and the appointment of another Derry man, Martin O’Neill, as boss.
Dave, a Sunderland season ticket holder who has followed the ‘Black Cats’ since 1962, says he was inspired to compose his musical tribute by McClean’s footballing magic.
“The moment I saw his passion and magical footballing skills my song was born,” he says.
“His speed and control on the ball were amazing, he passed defensive players like they weren’t there and his strength and trickery on the ball was explosive.
“After seeing James dazzle some of the biggest clubs in the Premiership, like Manchester City, with his magic, I knew he would be a massive success at Sunderland AFC - and in world football.”
The song, which you can watch and listen to via the link at derryjournal.com, includes the chorus: “He is fast, He is keen, He is speedy James McClean, A bonnie wee lad we bought from Derry City.”
Dave says both James and manager O’Neill have the potential to become real folk heroes in the north east of England.
“Both Martin and James are now a major influence on the future success at the club, I truly think they will become all time cult heroes, not only at the club but to the people of Sunderland.”
McClean joined Sunderland from Derry City for a fee of £350,000 last year. He has scored twice in eight premier league appearances for the Black Cats.
Watch a video of the song here Speedy James McClean
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