Kick It Out defend James McClean after birthday abuse

Kick It Out have offered their support to James McClean after an abusive birthday card was sent to Stoke City's training ground.

A week after his 30th birthday, McClean posted a photograph of a card he received on social media which contained a death threat, anti-Irish sentiment and a celebration of Bloody Sunday. Kick It Out have reported two previous instances of sectarian abuse directed at McClean this season and they encourage anyone who is a victim or witness of sectarian abuse in England to report their incident.

A Kick It Out statement reads: "We reiterate our stance, which we have previously made clear: sectarian abuse is discriminatory and should be dealt with accordingly. It has no place in football. "Kick It Out has been in continuous contact with Stoke City on this issue and have offered our support to James McClean. The vicious treatment he continues to receive is a disgrace and brings shame upon the sport. "This season we have received two reports of sectarian abuse directed at James, both of which we have forwarded to the relevant bodies to investigate, as per protocol. "We encourage anyone who is a victim or witness of sectarian abuse in England to report it to us."

McClean was abused during Stoke's 0-0 draw with QPR last month and the Derry native has said that he's ready to start just firing back at his detractors as soon as they make themselves heard.

"I am going to just start giving abusing back in whatever form I like and you’ll do nothing, just like you’s are doing everytime this occurs, otherwise that 'for all' on your logo would look very hypocritical and stupid, thanks hi."