James McClean calls out Danny Simpson for boxing match as Wrexham star reignites rivalry with Premier League winner ahead of his ring debut on KSI's Misfits platform

McClean and Simpson go back a long way. The two players clashed back in 2012 during a heated Tyne-Wear derby when a challenge by McClean, who was playing for Sunderland at the time, on Simpson sparked a mass brawl between both sets of players. Simpson, though, hasn't forgotten about his old rival even though he hung up his boots this summer to pursue a new challenge in the boxing ring in a show staged by KSI's Misfits.

Simpson has been talking about his new venture and been asked which players he might like to take on in the ring. The former Newcastle and Manchester United man was quick to point out McClean in a chat on Boxing Social.

He said: "Me and James McClean had a few little bust-ups. He's left wing, I was right-back. He wants to fight everyone so I say him because I know if he ever sees us he'll probably fancy himself. He was scrapping a bit at a Chelsea player recently in pre-season so he's still at it.

"I remember I was at Newcastle, he was at Sunderland and the two rivals and we always just had a bit, so yeah me and James McClean would probably have a good scrap."

McClean was quick to respond to Simpson with a post on Instagram that read: "Danny Simpson - win your upcoming fight first and give me a shout about the summer when the season's over. Until then if you need any sparring partners let me know, I'm only down the motorway."

Instagram

Fans will have to wait and see if Simpson takes up McClean's offer of a sparring partner ahead of his debut in Dublin on August 31. Meanwhile, McClean is back in action for Wrexham against Reading on Saturday in League One.