West Ham midfielder Ravel Morrison has been charged by the Football Association over an alleged homophobic remark on Twitter.
The 19-year-old, who moved to Upton Park from Manchester United on transfer deadline day, is reported to have made the comment in response to another Twitter user.
The FA wrote to Morrison last week for his observations on the matter and have now formally charged him.
A statement on the FA website read: "West Ham United's Ravel Morrison has been charged under FA Rule E3 for use of abusive and/or insulting words including a reference to a person's sexual orientation."
The incident marks an inauspicious start to Morrison's West Ham career after he was also involved in various off-field controversies while at Old Trafford.
Manchester United allowed the teenager to leave despite him being rated as one of the finest prospects to come out of the club in recent years.
Morrison, who has yet to make his debut for the Hammers, has until 4 p.m. Friday to respond ahead of a possible hearing, judgment and possible fine or suspension.
FOX Wire Services contributed to this report.
