The FA has progressed its investigation into four cases concerning social media postings relating to the quenelle gesture involving Benoit Assou-Ekotto (Tottenham Hotspur on loan at Queens Park Rangers), Yannick Sagbo (Hull City), Samir Nasri (Manchester City) and Mamadou Sakho (Liverpool).
Having considered the particular facts of each case extremely carefully in consultation with our appointed expert, The FA has on Tuesday charged Mr Assou-Ekotto and Mr Sagbo with improper conduct contrary to FA Rule E3 in relation to their postings on Twitter.
It is alleged that in each case the comment was abusive and/or indecent and/or insulting and/or improper, contrary to Rule E3(1). It is further alleged that each players' breach of Rule E3(1) was an “Aggravated Breach” as defined in Rule E3(2), as the comment included a reference to ethnic origin and/or race and/or religion or belief.
Both players have until April 8 2014 to respond to the charges.
The FA has issued Mr Nasri with a formal warning. Mr Sakho has been reminded of his responsibilities as a participant.
As the cases involving Mr Assou-Ekotto and Mr Sagbo are ongoing, The FA will make no further comment on any of these four cases at this time.
