Blues hit out at new FA charge

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Chelsea have been charged "for their failure to include the required provisions in his employment contract" and "failing to ensure that Bethell conducted himself in an orderly fashion and/or refrained from any one or a combination of racist and/or abusive and/or provocative conduct and/or language".

But the Blues hit back in a statement, saying: "We are surprised and extremely disappointed that the decision to charge the club has been taken nearly five months after the incident. The charges will be contested as we understand that no racist language was used and that Sam Bethell was doing no more than trying to defend himself."

The statement added: "Chelsea FC is deeply committed to stamping out racist behaviour and would never condone it."

Evra was also charged with improper conduct for the incident, which occurred when the left-back was warming down with his team-mates after they had lost 2-1 at Stamford Bridge.

He denied the charge and requested a personal hearing, which is scheduled for October 2.