The PFA have condemned the verbal abuse directed at Republic of Ireland international James McClean while playing for Stoke City against Huddersfield on Wednesday.
Huddersfield are investigating discriminatory sectarian chants after the game was halted and a PA announcement condemned chanting. McClean reported the abuse to the referee who went and spoke to both managers.
On Thursday, the PFA confirmed they will speak to referees and the Football League about the abuse.
"James has been subjected to this type of vile abuse throughout his career, and he will be fully supported in the same way as any other individual who receives abuse based on their race, religion or nationality," the statement read.
The PFA have previously advised James to report sectarian chanting to match officials and we are satisfied that in this instance the protocol was enacted.
However, this action in isolation is not sufficient. We welcome that Huddersfield have committed to a full investigation to identify offenders; we hope that the perpetrators will face further consequences from both within and outside the game.
They went on to declare their hope for proactive action.
"As with other forms of discrimination, it has become clear that this type of abuse is on the rise and is becoming a weekly occurrence for James.
"We will be talking with PGMO and the EFL to ensure that match officials are vigilant to this type of chanting and hope to see future action taken proactively on James' behalf.
"There is no justification for this or any other type of abuse and the PFA stands fully beside every player who faces discrimination."
