FA Launches Investigation into Racism Allegation During Preston vs Burnley Match

The Football Association (FA) has initiated an investigation following allegations of racial abuse during the Championship match between Preston North End and Burnley on Saturday. Burnley midfielder Hannibal Mejbri accused Preston forward Milutin Osmajic of using a racist remark during the 0-0 draw at Deepdale.

In response, Preston released a statement on Saturday, asserting that Osmajic has "strongly refuted" the claims. The incident was immediately reported to referee Andrew Kitchen, and the FA is expected to receive the official match report on Monday, which will include detailed accounts of the alleged incident.

Hannibal, a former Manchester United player, took to Instagram to express his emotions: "I will not be silent about what happened. I will always call out racism whenever I hear or see it. That is the only way we change as a sport and a society. I am a strong person, but nobody should have to experience this disgusting abuse on the pitch."

Burnley has confirmed they are aware of the alleged comment and have pledged their full support to the 22-year-old midfielder. Meanwhile, Burnley manager Scott Parker commented on Hannibal's state after the match: "He's hurt. I think everyone could see that at the time. Hannibal's an emotional player, and he was visibly very stressed by what was said. I don't want to get into the real details of what was said; I'm sure it'll come out in due course. Hannibal's reported it and is bitterly gutted, so we'll see what happens in the coming days."

This incident comes shortly after Osmajic was handed an eight-game ban by the FA in October for biting Blackburn's Owen Beck. The striker admitted to the charge of violent conduct and was fined £15,000.

The two teams are set to face each other again in the FA Cup fifth round on 1 March, adding further tension to the rivalry. The FA's investigation will be closely watched as the football community continues to address issues of racism in the sport.