Man denies online abuse of Premier League footballer Romaine Sawyers

West Bromwich Albion’s Romaine Sawyers warming up prior to kick-off during the Premier League match at the King Power Stadium, Leicester (Tim Keeton/PA)

A man charged after a police inquiry into online racist abuse of a Premier League footballer has denied a Communications Act offence in the UK.

Simon Silwood, 49, is accused of sending an offensive message to West Bromwich Albion midfielder Romaine Sawyers via social media in January of this year.