Suarez racism case delayed ‘til Tuesday
A disciplinary hearing into claims that Liverpool striker Suarez racially abused Manchester United defender Evra during a Premier League fixture at Anfield in October was opened on Wednesday.
It was suggested that a decision regarding what, if any, action to take would be made by Thursday.
The FA has, however, announced that the investigation will continue until the middle of next week.
“The Independent Regulatory Commission has confirmed there will be no decision this evening and will continue working through the weekend,’’ read a statement released on the FA’s website.
“There will be no announcement on any decision before Tuesday 20 December 2011 at the earliest.”
Fulham boss Martin Jol says he will be shocked if Suarez is proved to have racially abused Evra.
Jol worked with Suarez over an 18-month period during his time as Ajax manager.
“If it is true, I certainly am [surprised],” the Dutchman said.
“At Ajax we had players from all over the world, with all the continents involved and he was good with them all.
“He was my captain and you can imagine I told him it was his job to make them feel comfortable.
“He didn’t speak a lot of Dutch but he did it in his way and for me he was a real leader.
“A real leader would never do things like that. If it is true, I can’t believe it.”
Liverpool travel to Aston Villa tomorrow and Alex McLeish expects the home fans to give Stewart Downing “apprehension-inducing stick” when he returns for the first time since his summer switch.
When asked what sort of reception Downing would receive, McLeish said: “I don’t know. I think Stewart was a well liked lad here at Villa but I’m sure the fans will wind up the opposition.
“I’m sure Stewart will maybe not get too much flak because he is a decent lad and did a decent job.
“But maybe the fans will give a wee bit of apprehension-inducing stick shall we say!
“He is a terrific player, and £20million tells you he has got something in his locker.
“We know what he can do. We have to give him close attention and try and make sure he has a quiet return to Villa Park.”
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