The FA hearing investigating Patrice Evra's claims that he was racially abused by Luis Suarez during Manchester United's away match against Liverpool in October has apparently begun in secret, according to The Guardian. Evra alleges that Suarez directed a racist word in his direction at least ten times over the course of United's 1-1 draw at Anfield, but with Suarez denying these claims and with precious little evidence either way, it's difficult to say either way.

The Guardian is claiming that "[Suarez's] defence is understood to focus on the nuances of the Spanish language and cultural differences, arguing that what he said would not be considered offensive for someone of his background in South America," and with that in mind this hearing is likely to take a while as the FA explores the fun and not-slippery-at-all ground of culturally acceptable racist abuse. While it's understood at Suarez faces a lengthy ban if found guilty, it's difficult how anything short of him hoisting himself by his own petard will see the Uruguayan convicted.