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Suarez slapped with racism charge

Comment: 0 November 17th, 2011 by: admin

AFTER a month-long investigation, the Football Association charged Liverpool striker Luis Suarez for allegedly making a series of racist remarks against Manchester United’s Patrice Evra.

The issue first broke when Evra told the media after their 1-1 draw against the Red Devils last October that the Uruguayan repeatedly threw abusive insults at him throughout the course of the match.

Despite Suarez insisting that Evra’s accusations were false, the FA decided to slap the striker with the racism charges after watching footage of the incidents.

‘It is alleged that Suarez used abusive and/or insulting words and/or behaviour towards Manchester United’s Patrice Evra contrary to FA rules,’ said the FA in an official statement.

‘It is further alleged that this included a reference to the ethnic origin and/or colour and/or race of Patrice Evra.’

According to the football governing body, the investigation had equipped them with enough evidence to officially charge Suarez who, reports say, is denying the accusations.

Speaking about the issue a week ago, the Uruguayan insisted that what he called Evra was not meant to be an insult.  Without specifying the exact words, Suarez stated that it was ‘something [Evra’s] team-mates at Manchester call him, and even they were surprised by his reaction.’

If found guilty, the Uruguayan could face at least a six-game ban and perhaps a hefty fine due to the gravity of the offence.

Liverpool have acknowledged receiving the information regarding the charge, and stated that they plan to discuss the matter fully with Suarez.

‘The club this afternoon received notification from the Football Association of their decision to charge Luis Suarez and will take time to properly review the documentation which has been sent to us,’ said the club in an official statement.

‘We will discuss the matter fully with him when he returns from international duty.’

The statement also confirmed that Suarez plans to file a not-guilty plea and is expected to request that a personal trial be held.

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

The striker has remained solid regarding his innocence in the matter ever since Evra first went public with the accusation.

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