He may have a gift for winding people up but Ireland international James McClean appears to have a heart of absolute gold, having shown kindness and generosity many times in the past.

It is being reported that he has shown his softer side again in recent days to help a family in mourning in his native Derry.

The McGavigan family are currently coming to terms with the tragic loss of two-year-old Ronan, who died on Sunday after being hit by a car on the Lone Moor Road.

A JustGiving page was set up to help the cost of the funeral and other expenses.

The person who set up the page had hoped to raise £1000 in total but that amount was covered in a single donation on Sunday evening, made in the names of James and Erin McClean. Erin is James’ wife’s name.

We have contacted McClean’s representatives for confirmation that the donation is from the footballer but it certainly looks like he has helped out in his local area once again.

In total more than £3,600 has been raised so far to help the family. Ronan’s funeral is to be held tomorrow in Derry.