Suarez charged by FA

PICTURE: Reuters

LUIS Suarez has been charged by the Football Association for allegedly using racist language to insult Patrice Evra.

The charge comes after a month of investigations following comments from the Manchester United defender, who alleged that the Liverpool striker had used a racial slur on him "at least 10 times" following their sides' Oct 15 ancounter at Anfield.

An FA statement said on Wednesday: "The FA has today charged Liverpool's Luis Suarez following an incident that occurred during the Liverpool versus Manchester United fixture at Anfield on 15 October 2011.

"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."

However, Liverpool are standing by Suarez, saying they "remain fully supportive" of the Uruguayan attacker - who will plead not guilty and request a personal hearing - as they plan to discuss the case with him once he returns from international duty.