Suarez slapped with eight-match ban for racial slur on Evra

The striker branded the “Cannibal of Ajax’’ by the Dutch media had started to put past misdemeanors,including a contentious handball at the 2010 World Cup,behind him with fine displays on the pitch since arriving at Liverpool in January for around $35 million. Now his reputation has been further stained by the FA’s panel,which accepted Evra’s allegation that Suarez had directed a racial insult at him during United’s 1-1 draw at Liverpool on October 15.

“The insulting words used by Mr. Suarez included a reference to Mr. Evra’s color,’’ the FA said in a statement. The FA also warned Suarez about his future conduct. But he could be hit with another ban if he is convicted of making an obscene gesture toward home supporters when walking off the pitch following a 1-0 loss at Fulham on December 5.

Liverpool,though,remained fully behind Suarez after Tuesday’s ruling,trusting the striker’s word that he made no racial slur toward Evra. As no other player or official heard the alleged remark,there was no witness to corroborate or refute Evra’s claims.

In a strongly worded statement,Liverpool said it was “very surprised and disappointed’’ with the verdict. “It is our strong held belief,having gone over the facts of the case,that Luis Suarez did not commit any racist act,’’ the club said.

Terry faces criminal charges

England captain John Terry is set to discover if he will face criminal charges over allegations he racially abused Anton Ferdinand during an EPL match on October 23.

A spokeswoman for the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) said a decision on whether they would press charges would be announced soon.