The English FA has charged Liverpool striker Luis Suarez for directing racial abuse at Patrice Evra of Manchester United during the teams' Premier League match in October. Evra, who is black, lodged a complaint citing the abuse, which Suarez has denied saying.

“It is alleged that Suarez used abusive and/or insulting words and/or behavior towards Manchester United’s Patrice Evra contrary to FA rules,” said the FA 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.”

In response. Liverpool released a statement reiterating its backing of the Uruguayan international. “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,” said the Liverpool 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 also investigating alleged racial abuse by Chelsea defender John Terry during a league match last month against Queens Park Rangers.