West Bromwich Albion have rejected a loan offer from Derby County for winger James McClean, according to journalist Alan Nixon on Twitter.

Appearing regularly in the league this season under Tony Pulis and then Alan Pardew, McClean has scored just once in twenty appearances, as West Brom face a relegation battle in the closing stages of the season.

The Republic of Ireland international joined the Baggies from Wigan Athletic in 2015, with his form earning him an impressive fifty four senior caps, with the player an important part of the side that narrowly missed out on qualification for this summer’s World Cup after falling out of contention in the play-off round against Denmark.

Derby are on the hunt for automatic promotion and manager Gary Rowett has identified McClean as the man to get his side over the line, but it now appears the former Birmingham boss must turn his attentions elsewhere after Pardew’s resounding ‘no’ to any potential deal.

The Verdict

For Derby to secure the services of a Premier League regular was a bold move by Rowett, and the manager has been given the answer he surely expected to receive.

The Rams have a strong squad which would have been further boosted by the arrival of the Irishman, and the group at Pride Park could certainly do with the addition of a winger.

That man will not be McClean however, and Rowett must now look elsewhere for the latest addition to his side.

Rams fans, let us know your thoughts!