Leeds United's Kiko Casilla could finally appear before FA on racism charge next week

Leeds United keeper Kiko Casilla could finally appear before the FA next week, over a racism charge that stems back to September 2019.
Kiko Casilla could appear before the FA next week on a racism charge (Pic: Getty)Kiko Casilla could appear before the FA next week on a racism charge (Pic: Getty)
Kiko Casilla could appear before the FA next week on a racism charge (Pic: Getty)

The Telegraph has reported that Casilla's hearing will be held over February 18 and 19.

The goalkeeper is alleged to have used racist language in an incident involving former Charlton Athletic loanee Jonathan Leko during a game at The Valley at the end of September.

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Casilla denies the allegation, which if proven could see him banned for six games.

The FA are expected to hear from West Brom's Leko, Casilla and players from both Leeds and Charlton.

Leeds United have gone on record to condemn all forms of racism, but have expressed their concerns over the FA's standard of proof in cases involving such serious allegations.

"The club's unequivocal stance is that racism will not be tolerated in any form and this standard is applied across staff, coaches, players and supporters," said chief executive Angus Kinnear.

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"However it is important to assert that Kiko vehemently denies the allegation and has fully cooperated with the investigation.

"As well as Kiko's word, he can evidence a long distinguished and unblemished career playing alongside teammates, and against opponents, with an eclectic mix of ethnicities and nationalities.

"As a club we fully support such a serious allegation being subject to full investigation and a disciplinary process. Our only concern is that the standard of proof for an FA hearing is not 'beyond all reasonable doubt' but 'on the balance of probability.' We believe that in cases of this seriousness the higher standard of proof is more appropriate. This is not because we fear a sporting sanction, but because a man's reputation is at stake."

Casilla's on-field form has taken a dramatic dip since mid December and his place in Marcelo Bielsa's team has been called into question by fans and pundits alike.

But the Whites head coach and his players have continued to back the former Real Madrid stopper.