News: A police investigation has been launched after deaf football fans complained they had lip-read Liverpool's Steve Finnan making a racist remark towards Patrice Evra of Manchester United.
The Merseyside club immediately denounced the claim as an "outrageous slur" but Greater Manchester police confirmed last night inquiries are ongoing into allegations that the Liverpool full-back "made an offensive comment" during last month's 1-0 defeat at Old Trafford.
It is understood the alleged remark was picked up by fans watching the game on television. Two contacted the police, as well as Manchester United, and claimed they had lip-read what the Republic of Ireland international apparently said.
The revelations drew an angry response from Anfield. "The first either the club or the player knew about this matter was through the media," a spokesman said. "There has been no contact from the Greater Manchester police. We have subsequently had a video of the match analysed by a lip-reader, who has told us there is nothing to support this outrageous slur."
The incident allegedly happened after Finnan had given away the stoppage-time free-kick on Evra that led to Rio Ferdinand heading the decisive goal. Evra was unaware of any racist taunts.
Finnan returned to Liverpool last night after being forced out of the Republic of Ireland's squad to face Sweden in Dublin because of a neck injury. "The player vehemently denies these allegations," the Liverpool spokesman added.
United captain Gary Neville, meanwhile, has confirmed he will appeal against the Football Association's £5,000 fine imposed last week when the ruling body found him guilty of improper conduct after he ran 60 yards towards the Liverpool fans and kissed his badge to celebrate Ferdinand's winner in the same match.
Guardian Service
