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Shaun Keenan

Beautiful moment as James McClean gives five-year-old one of her 'greatest days ever'

Derry man James McClean has shown his generosity once again by making one of Ireland's tiniest fans' dreams come true.

Earlier this month, the family of Zoe Murphy, who suffers from cerebral palsy, said they no longer felt welcome to cheer their beloved Dundalk FC after Zoe was subject to a cruel rant by a fan during a game between Drogheda and Dundalk.

The young Dundalk native, who can’t stand unaided, is well-known to the club and the local community.

Read more: Derry woman diagnosed with ovarian cancer at 28 on campaign to help others

The exchange caused outrage across the country, with Zoe's mother Lynda saying they had been overwhelmed by messages of support.

Meanwhile, Republic of Ireland star James McClean also invited them to watch last weekend’s Ireland game against Belgium with his own family at the Aviva.

The Republic of Ireland came from behind as they drew with Belgium in an international friendly at the Aviva Stadium on Saturday evening.

James McClean with Zoe Murphy before the Republic of Ireland's game against Belgium (Lynda Murphy)

Taking to social media, Lynda said the Creggan man had given Zoe one of her greatest days ever.

She added: "Thank you so much to Republic of Ireland legend James McClean for providing Zoe with one of the greatest days ever, inviting her to be his guest in his family box at the Aviva Stadium for yesterday's match against Belgium."

Zoe Murphy at the Aviva Stadium on Saturday (Lynda Murphy)

"Not only did Zoe have an amazing seat and view for such an exhilarating game but everyone was so welcoming and friendly to her and made her day so special. Such a pleasure to meet such lovely people.

"We couldn’t believe when he just reached out to us personally, and not only this but got Zoe her own jersey signed by the team. We absolutely loved yesterday and can’t thank James and family and friends enough for giving her such an experience."

You can follow Zoe's journey with Cerebral Palsy on Facebook and Instagram.

Read more Derry sports hero Danny Quigley to launch fund to provide mental health counselling

Read more: MyDerry readers tell us the one new shop they want in the city

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