Suarez charged by FA over Evra race incident
THE FOOTBALL ASSOCIATION has charged Liverpool striker Luis Suarez with racially abusing Manchester United defender Patrice Evra.
The charge relates to an incident that is alleged to have taken place during the 1-1 draw between the two clubs at Anfield in October, and comes after a month-long investigation.
Uruguay international Suarez had already strenuously denied Evra’s accusations and, with the full backing of his club, is set to plead not guilty.
An FA statement said: “It is alleged that Suarez used abusive and/or insulting words and/or behaviour towards Manchester United’s Patrice Evra contrary to FA rules.
“It is further alleged that this included a reference to the ethnic origin and/or colour and/or race of Patrice Evra.”
Liverpool, whose manager Kenny Dalglish previously said that he does not think racism is prevalent at the club, responded with a statement backing their player.
It read: “We will discuss the matter fully with him when he returns from international duty, but he will plead not guilty to the charge and we expect him to request a personal hearing.
“Luis remains determined to clear his name of the allegation made against him by Patrice Evra. The club remain fully supportive of Luis.”