Leeds goalkeeper Casilla charged with racial abuse

• Kiko Casilla has been charged with racially abusing Charlton forward Jonathan Leko during a Championship fixture.
• An FA statement published on Monday said Casilla has been charged with a breach of FA Rule E3.
• Leeds released a statement saying the Spaniard "strenuously denies" the charge.

LONDON: Leeds goalkeeper Kiko Casilla has been charged with racially abusing Charlton forward Jonathan Leko during a Championship fixture.

The Spaniard, 33, is alleged to have made discriminatory comments towards Leko during the match on September 28.

The Football Association said Casilla, who joined Leeds in January, has until November 12 to provide a response.

An FA statement published on Monday said Casilla has been charged with a breach of FA Rule E3.

It is alleged that his words "made reference to race and/or colour and/or ethnic origin".

A player found guilty of an aggravated breach of the FA's discrimination rules faces a minimum six-match suspension, which may be increased based on any additional aggravating factors.

Leeds released a statement saying the Spaniard "strenuously denies" the charge.

"Kiko strenuously denies the allegation and has proactively worked with the FA during their investigation to date," the club said.

"The next step of this process will be a personal hearing. In the meantime Kiko will remain available for selection."