FA charges Suarez for racially abusing Evra

Published Nov. 16, 2011 12:58 p.m. ET

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Liverpool striker Luis Suarez was charged Wednesday with racially abusing Manchester United defender Patrice Evra.

Evra, who is black, made the allegations last month after United's 1-1 draw at Liverpool in the Premier League.

''It is alleged that Suarez used abusive and/or insulting words and/or behavior towards Manchester United's Patrice Evra contrary to FA rules,'' the English Football Assocation said in a statement. ''It is further alleged that this included a reference to the ethnic origin and/or color and/or race of Patrice Evra.''

Suarez has denied the allegations and has been backed by his club throughout the investigation.

''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,'' Liverpool said in a statement. ''Luis remains determined to clear his name of the allegation made against him by Patrice Evra. The club remain fully supportive of Luis in this matter.''

The FA - and London police - are still investigating England captain John Terry for allegedly racially abusing an opponent while playing for Chelsea.

The FA probe is on hold while police examine whether Terry did direct a racist slur at Queens Park Rangers defender Anton Ferdinand during a match last month.