The Football Association (FA) on Monday charged Preston striker Milutin Osmajic for alleged racist abuse against Tunisia and Burnley midfielder Hannibal Mejbri, Afrosport reports.
Mejbri accused Osmajic of racially abusing him during a goalless draw at Preston’s Deepdale in the Championship last month.
The 22-year-old Tunisian called the attention of the referee after the alleged racist abuse, while Preston, after the game, confirmed that Osmajic strongly denied the allegation.
The FA announced shortly after that it had opened an investigation into the incident and the body has now charged the Montenegrin, who has until 25 March to respond.
“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.,” the FA said in a statement.
It was further alleged that this constituted an “aggravated breach,” as it includes a reference, whether expressed or implied, to colour and/or race”.
The match between Burnley and Preston was delayed for several minutes in the second half when Mejbri, visibly angered by the comment, reacted to something that appeared to be said to him by Osmajic before speaking to referee Andrew Kitchen.
Both teams faced off in the FA Cup fifth round two weeks after the incident, with Preston winning 3-0, while Burnley players refused to shake hands with Osmajic before the game.
Preston, meanwhile, welcomes the FA charges, adding that they would not be making further comment until the case has been concluded.
“Milutin continues to strongly deny the allegations of the use of abusive language with reference to color and/or race and will provide an official response to the FA charges in due course,” the club said in a statement.
