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The English Football Association (FA) have charged Preston North End striker Milutin Osmajic after he was accused of allegedly racially abusing former Manchester United midfielder Hannibal Mejbri.
The incident took place last month, during a Championship meeting between Hannibal’s side, Burnley, and Preston.
Hannibal claimed he was subjected to “disgusting abuse” by Osmajic and reported the matter to the referee and his manager Scott Parker.
There was a pause as a heated exchange over the incident ensued. Hannibal remained on the pitch before being substituted in the second half.
After the final whistle, the Carrington academy graduate took to social media, insisting he wouldn’t be silent and would always call out racism. Preston released a statement saying Osmajic “strongly refuted” the allegation.
When Burnley and Preston came up against each other in the FA Cup in March, players representing the Turf Moor outfit refused to shake hands with Osmajic as a sign of solidarity with Hannibal.
On Monday, the FA announced Osmajic has been charged with misconduct under FA Rule E3 and has until next Tuesday to respond.
An official FA statement read, “Milutin Osmajic has been charged with breaching FA Rule E3 at the Championship fixture between Preston and Burnley on Saturday 15 February.”
“It’s alleged that the forward acted in an improper manner and/or used abusive and/or insulting words towards an opposing player contrary to FA Rule E3.1.”
“It’s further alleged that this constitutes an ‘aggravated breach’ which is defined in FA Rule E3.2, as it includes a reference, whether express or implied, to colour and/or race. Milutin Osmajic has until Tuesday 25 March to provide a response.”
Preston replied with their own statement, relaying, “Preston North End acknowledges the charges brought against Milutin Osmajic by the FA following last month’s Sky Bet Championship fixture against Burnley.”
“Milutin continues to strongly deny the allegations of the use of abusive language with reference to colour and/or race and will provide an official response to the FA charges in due course.”
“Until such a time where the case has been concluded, the club will be making no further comment.”
In October, Osmajic received an eight-game ban from the FA for biting Blackburn’s Owen Beck. He admitted to the violent conduct charge and was fined £15,000.
Featured image Alex Livesey via Getty Images
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