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Kirk Broadfoot has been handed a staggering 10-game ban for a sectarian tirade against James McClean.

The Rotherham and former Scotland defender will have to serve what is believed to be the longest ban for verbal abuse in English football history.

The ex-Glasgow Rangers player launched the attack against the Wigan and Republic of Ireland winger at the New York Stadium on March 14.

It is understood he received the record ban after being called to an FA tribunal with club officials to face charges relating to sectarianism.

Earlier this week, Rotherham and the FA refused to comment on the matter because of a strict confidentiality agreement that prohibits anyone connected to the case with making any comment about it.

(Image: Action)

It is believed that was put in place over fears of a risk to the parties involved if details were revealed.

The ban beats the eight-game punishment given to Liverpool striker Luis Suarez after he racially abused Manchester United defender Patrice Evra in 2011.

Broadfoot was born into a Protestant family in Ayrshire and is known to be a staunch supporters of certain cultural traditions relating to his religion.

McClean, a Catholic who signed for West Brom this summer, has been in the news over his refusal to wear a shirt with a poppy symbol in it, turning his back on the Union Flag prior to a game and refusing to sing the British national anthem before kick-off at a game for his new club during their pre-season tour in America.