Evra claims racial abuse from Suarez

Manchester United defender Patrice Evra accused Liverpool striker Luis Suarez of racial abuse in Saturday's heavyweight Premier League clash at Anfield.

Evra, a French international, said Suarez abused him "at least 10 times" -- and that Andre Marriner, the referee, knew of his complaint, The (London) Sunday Times reported.

The Football Association confirmed that it would investigate the allegation, although Suarez categorically denies using any racist language towards his opponent.

Liverpool manager Kenny Dalglish was made aware of Evra's accusation when he spoke to Marriner 20 minutes after full-time of the match, which finished 1-1. Dalglish put Evra's charges to Suarez, who insisted he was innocent.

Evra was booked during the match, seemingly for dissent, after tangling with several Liverpool players including Suarez and complaining to the referee. At one point, after the pair had clashed, Suarez tried to shake his hand and Evra rebuffed his overture. Suarez appeared to kick Evra in the knee but was not cautioned.

In reports from France, Evra claimed that Suarez was trying "to wind me up" and accused the Uruguayan striker of repeatedly voicing a derogatory racial slur.

"The referee is aware of what was said," said Evra. "There are cameras, you can see him say a certain word to me at least 10 times. [There is] no place for that in 2011."

This is not the first time Evra has claimed to be a victim of racism. In April 2008 he said that a Chelsea groundsman had insulted him while United players were warming down after a 2-1 defeat at Stamford Bridge.

Evra and the groundsman had to be separated. The United defender was banned for four matches and fined £15,000 (US$23,500) for his role in the incident. The allegations of racism were dismissed.