The FA have charged Dele Alli with misconduct, following a controversial social media post that constituted an 'aggravated breach' of their rules around race.
Alli posted a video on Snapchat in which he appeared to joke about the spread of the Coronavirus, with the England international appearing to mock the outbreak of the disease, while zooming in on a man with Asian origin.
The Tottenham midfielder then shows the camera some anti-bacterial hand wash, adding in the caption: "This virus gunna have to be quicker than that to catch me."
Following the public backlash, Alli posted an apology expressing his regret at the video, but that has not prevented the FA from taking action.
A statement on the FA's website read: "Dele Alli has been charged with misconduct for a breach of FA Rule E3 in relation to a social media post. It is alleged that the Tottenham Hotspur midfielder’s post breaches FA Rule E3(1) as it was insulting and/or improper and/or brought the game into disrepute.
"It is further alleged that the post constitutes an “Aggravated Breach”, which is defined in FA Rule E3(2), as it included a reference, whether express or implied, to race and/or colour and/or ethnic origin and/or nationality. He has until Thursday 5 March 2020 to provide a response."
Spurs have until 5 March to appeal the decision, with the charge likely to result in a fine and match ban if he is found guilty - as well as a mandatory education course.
Jose Mourinho is already without forward options Harry Kane and Heung-min Son, so losing another attacking player at such a crucial stage of the season could have a damaging effect on the club's ambitions this term.
Wolves are next up in the Premier League this weekend but Alli will be available for selection as any potential ban will not take place before then.
Source :
90min
