Sunderland winger James McClean sent death threats for refusing to wear a Remembrance Day Poppy Although Sunderland have insisted they were happy to let the 23-year-old from Derry make a personal choice, although many have criticised him for turning a charity appeal into a political statement, particularly when other Irish players, from both sides of the border, were happy to wear one. "I wanted him dead," said Lachey, as reported by the Derry Journal. But there's no threat from me to James McClean now, although I can't be held responsible for what other people may do. I think he's [McClean] a f***ing disgrace. I know I'll end up in trouble and maybe in prison over this but I'm willing to go to court, that's how strongly I feel. Lachey's account has since been suspended, but Sunderland have confirmed police are looking into the matter. Sinn Fein MLA for Foyle, Raymond McCartney, is adamant Lachey should be punished. "If any alleged threat has been made it should be withdrawn and thoroughly investigated by police," he said. The right of people not to feel intimidated into wearing a poppy must be recognised. That includes professional footballers. James McLean's personal choice in this regard should be respected.