The Football Association have written to Manchester City defender David Sommeil following allegations he was racially abused by Arsenal's Robin van Persie during the Premiership clash at Eastlands on Thursday.

During the first half of City's 3-1 defeat to the Gunners, Sommeil informed referee Graham Poll that van Persie had racially abused him, prompting the official to speak to representatives of both clubs at half-time.

The FA are now awaiting Sommeil's response before deciding whether to launch an formal inquiry.

"We went to see Graham Poll at half-time and he informed us there had been an allegation of racial abuse," confirmed City boss Stuart Pearce. "None of my players mentioned it to me at half-time or after the game but if someone does come and speak to me about it, it will be taken very seriously."

Pearce added that it was the first time he has had to deal with a situation such as this but whether the matter is pursued or not depends on Sommeil's willingness to take it further.

Poll spoke to both players independently on the pitch following the incident, which is believed to have been sparked by a penalty-box tussle.

Van Persie has endured a difficult season, having spent time in prison in the summer following a rape allegation which was dismissed by the Dutch authorities.