Two James McClean images tell clearer story of pre-match tribute to Queen Elizabeth II

Before everyone gets into a tizzy...

Ahead of this evening's football games in England many were wondering aloud if James McClean and the Liverpool fans would show their respects to the late Queen Elizabeth II. As if there is not enough for folks to be concerning themselves with at a time of great loss and remembrance for so many in the UK and wider Commonwealth, there was open speculation on if Liverpool fans would boo any moments' silence, and if McClean would not properly observe any planned tributes before Wigan took on Huddersfield in the Championship. One of the first images that circulated showed the Republic of Ireland international standing slightly apart from the other 10 Wigan starters, which included Irish teammate Will Keane. https://twitter.com/IrishPropaganda/status/1569760578994077698 Some commenting online took it as James McClean making a bold statement. Another image, captured by Getty, gives a fuller sense of the moment. The proud Derry native is standing slightly aside from his embracing Wigan teammates, but his head is respectfully bowed, he has observed the silence and he is wearing a black armband, like the other players gathered around the centre circle. [caption id="attachment_272146" align="aligncenter" width="1000"] James McClean and his Wigan Athletic teammates stand at the centre circle during a minute's silence, as players and spectators pay tribute to Queen Elizabeth II. (Photo by Charlotte Tattersall/Getty Images)[/caption] No controversy from James McClean or Liverpool fans, then. Fear-mongers could go back to stopping beeping tills at Morrisons, ensuring anthems are not sung before football games and stopping the Champions League music from ringing out at stadiums. It has been a week most of us won't soon forget.