'It makes me, me' - James McClean opens up on his autism diagnosis

James McClean on autism, family and football: ‘I decided to go through the diagnosis process because there were so many similarities between Willow and me’

Autism was something that I never knew too much about, even though it had been with me forever. I was diagnosed as autistic in 2023, having had our daughter, Willow-Ivy, diagnosed previously.

Early diagnosis of autism is key to successful intervention and child development, it was emphasized at a professional seminar held today in Mostar, which brought together parents and experts in this field. Parents most often notice a delay in speech, but experts warn that autism can be recognized earlier - by a lack of reaction to the child's name, poor eye contact, unusual ways of playing and repetitive actions.

'It makes me, me' - James McClean opens up on his autism diagnosis

James McClean has opened up on his autism diagnosis and how learning about the disorder gave him clarity on parts of his life. The veteran footballer turns 36 next month but remains a key player for his club Wrexham and their push for promotion in England’s League One. The Derry native bid farewell to his Ireland career in November 2023 but managed to become a centurion after surpassing 100 senior caps. James McClean of Wrexham looks on prior to…