Jonjo Shelvey has requested a personal hearing with the FA over a misconduct charge dating back to September.
The charge has been hanging over the midfielder since the September 17 clash with Wolves with the club confirming today that the charge will be challenged.
In a brief statement this afternoon they announced: “Newcastle United can confirm that Jonjo Shelvey has today pleaded not guilty to an FA charge of misconduct in relation to an alleged incident during Newcastle United’s game against Wolverhampton Wanderers on Saturday, 17 September.
“The player has requested a personal hearing with the FA regarding this matter. The club will be making no further comment until the matter has been concluded.”
The charge of racial abuse aimed at Roman Saiss was brought to the attention of match referee Tim Robinson by a team-mate of Saiss.
If found guilty Shelvey would face a minimum five match suspension which would have a major impact on his reputation as well as the club.
The 24-year-old has been an important part of Rafa Benitez’s plans this season after speculation that he would quit the club in the summer following relegation to The Championship.
Shelvey has made 19 first team appearances this season and will be available for Sunday’s match away to Leeds United.
