Wrexham star James McClean has admitted to throwing a punch at a Cardiff City fan in the players' car park before last week's Carabao Cup match between the two Welsh clubs. The League One side Wrexham defeated Cardiff 2-1 to advance to the quarter-finals against Chelsea.

McClean, 36, told talkSPORT that he was approached by four Cardiff fans who "started running their mouths off". He claims he reacted after their second verbal attack.

"Words were said," McClean explained. "One of them, a tall chap with glasses, made a hostile move towards me… I'm in my workplace and I feel I should never feel threatened in that workplace".

McClean stated he acted in self-defense, saying, "So instead, I wasn't waiting for him to make the first swing, so I did. Four men, one of me". He added, "People need to understand just because we play football doesn't mean people can try and take liberties without their actions having consequences".

McClean maintains that the incident ended there. "That was it. Nothing further happened. And the situation was dealt with," he said.

The incident is reportedly not under police investigation. The PA news agency has contacted North Wales Police for comment.

Wrexham AFC released a statement to PA, acknowledging their awareness of the incident involving a first-team player and a visiting supporter before their match against Cardiff City. They stated the matter has been reported to the relevant authorities and that they will not be commenting further at this time.

Wrexham is scheduled to play Portsmouth at Fratton Park in the Championship on Wednesday evening.