Leeds speak out on Bellusci racism charge

The Italian, who joined United in the close season for £1.6m from Catania, has until January 2 to appeal against the charge for a breach of FA Rule E3, with it alleged that Bellusci used abusive and/or insulting words towards Huddersfield-born Jerome.

It is further alleged by the FA that the breach is an “aggravated breach” as it included a reference to ethnic origin and/or colour and/or race.

The Canaries striker claimed he was called a “negro” by Bellusci, with Jerome complaining to referee Mark Clattenburg midway through the first-half of the 1-1 draw at Carrow Road.

Bellusci strongly denied using any racist language, with United owner Massimo Cellino subsequently publicly defending the centre-half, stating unequivocally that he was no racist.

And the club reiterated their strong belief that Bellusci is no racist in a statement issued shortly after the FA charged him yesterday.

A club statement said: The player has consistently made it clear to the club that he did not use racist language.

“The club understands that there is no third party evidence supporting Mr Jerome’s allegation. Accordingly, the player will be contesting the charge.”

The FA have been investigating Jerome’s claims for the past two months. If Bellusci is found guilty, punishments include a suspension or a fine, or both.

Shortly after the FA announced it was investigating Jerome’s claims, Cellino mounted a staunch defence of Bellusci, who has missed United’s last three matches with a hamstring injury.

But Cellino’s comments also suggested that he would kick the player out of the club if it was proven he was racist.

Speaking in October, Cellino said: “Bellusci is no racist. I spoke with him and he said ‘you must be joking’, I said nothing like this to Jerome.’ He is surprised by this. He is shocked.

“He was p***** off, sure, because he got hit in the neck and the face, but he denies anything racist. I believe him and I’ll support him.”

“I don’t allow racists at this club and I won’t allow racists at this club ever.

“If one of my players is a racist, I’ll kick his a**e and kick him out before the FA has a chance.

“I’ll write to them (the FA) to clarify my position on Bellusci and racism.

“If any Leeds player was shown to be a racist, he’d be out. That’s my philosophy and my promise.”

The Bellusci case bears similarities to the situation involving former Liverpool striker Luis Suarez back in November 2011, when the Uruguayan was famously found guilty of racially abusing Manchester United defender Patrick Evra.

Despite persistently denying he was a racist and claiming that his use of the word negro was not considered racist language in his homeland, Suarez was banned by eight games by the FA and handed a £40,000 fine the following month.