Emre faces new racism allegation

Emre has repeatedly protested his innocence in his own country

The Football Association is set to investigate further claims of racism against Newcastle midfielder Emre.

The 26-year-old Turkish international is likely to be probed after a statement from Watford's Al Bangura that he was allegedly abused by Emre.

But Emre's agent, Ahmet Bulut, told BBC Radio Five Live: "Emre is not a racist - he never used the words the newspapers (have said he did)."

Bolton striker El-Hadji Diouf will not pursue a similar claim against Emre.

Emre has already denied an FA charge of using racially-aggravated and/ or insulting words when Newcastle played Everton at Goodison Park in December.

The hearing for the Goodison Park incident will be held on 19 March.

"The FA wrote to Bangura and Diouf to ask for a statements," said a Football Association statement.

"El-Hadji Diouf has responded and confirmed he does not want to pursue the matter.

"Al Bangura has responded with a statement and further investigations will now be made."

Newcastle have issued a statement revealing their concern over the media coverage of the allegations made against Emre.

"In recent weeks, Newcastle United has become increasingly concerned about articles appearing in various national newspapers concerning Emre," said the club.

"Those articles have made various inaccurate and unfair comments on the case, and have ignored the basic principle that any person is presumed to be innocent until proven guilty.

"The conduct of certain sections of the press in ignoring that basic principle of fairness is deeply regrettable.

"It is the club's opinion that the content in these articles is highly prejudicial and seriously reduces the chances of the player receiving a fair hearing.

"Both the club and player have genuine worries that a trial through the media is effectively being conducted long before the actual hearing will take place."