Jonjo Shelvey pleads not guilty to FA charge relating to alleged racial abuse

Newcastle United midfielder Jonjo Shelvey has pleaded not guilty to a charge of misconduct from the Football Association.

The 24-year-old is alleged to have used racist language during the Magpies' 2-0 defeat to Wolverhampton Wanderers at St James' Park on September 17.

The former Liverpool player is accused of directing "abusive and/or insulting words" towards an opposition player during the Championship match.

A statement on Newcastle's official website read: "The player has requested a personal hearing with the FA regarding this matter. The club will be making no further comment until the matter has been concluded."

Shelvey signed for the North-East outfit from Swansea City in January.