Barnsley have been charged by the Football Association following alleged sectarian abuse aimed at James McClean during their game against Stoke in November.

The Republic of Ireland international was allegedly the target of sectarian chants in the lead-up to Remembrance Sunday.

An FA statement said: "Barnsley FC has been charged with a breach of FA Rule E20.

"It is alleged that the club failed to ensure its spectators, and all persons purporting to be its supporters or followers, conducted themselves in an orderly fashion and refrained from using abusive and/or insulting words which included a reference, whether express or implied, to nationality and/or religion and/or beliefs, while attending an EFL Championship fixture against Stoke City FC on Saturday, 9 November 2019.

"Barnsley FC has until Friday, 10 January 2020 to respond."

McClean applauded when an announcement was made at Huddersfield where fans were warned 'offensive behaviour is affecting the game and will not be tolerated'

Barnsley replied with a statement, which read: "Barnsley Football Club has a zero tolerance policy on any form of discrimination.

"As a club, we are saddened to have had this charge brought against us. Since the incident was first reported, as a club, we have been thoroughly investigating and we will continue to do so.

"Anybody found to be involved in any form of abusive behaviour when representing Barnsley Football Club will be banned from attending matches.

"We will await and respect the outcome of the FA's charge against us before communicating further on this matter."

The FA is also investigating allegations of discriminatory chanting aimed at McClean during Stoke's 5-2 win at Huddersfield on New Year's Day, when a tannoy announcement was made to spectators.

The Professional Footballers' Association have supported McClean and will hold talks with the Professional Game Match Official and the English Football League.