John Terry Charged by The FA With Racial Abuse Against Ferdinand; Terry Denies Charge

Chelsea captain John Terry has been charged by The FA with racial abuse against Anton Ferdinand.

“After seeking advice from an external Independent QC, and having considered the evidence and Magistrates’ Court decision in the John Terry case, The FA has today charged the Chelsea player following an alleged incident that occurred during the Queens Park Rangers versus Chelsea fixture at Loftus Road on 23 October 2011,” said a statement on The FA’s website. “It is alleged that Terry used abusive and/or insulting words and/or behaviour towards Queens Park Rangers’ Anton Ferdinand, contrary to FA rules. It is further alleged that this included a reference to the ethnic origin and/or colour and/or race of Anton Ferdinand.”

The FA says that John Terry has one week to respond to the charges. John Terry quickly responded to the charge when Chelsea’s website issued the following statement:

“John Terry has denied an FA charge announced today (Friday) and will be requesting the opportunity for a personal hearing.”

Meanwhile, The FA says that John Terry remains available to play for England. The next match for England is August 15, 2012 against Italy in a friendly.

John Terry is currently in Miami and is part of the Chelsea squad available to play tomorrow’s friendly against AC Milan (6:30pm ET, on ESPN2 in the United States).