A 47-year-old Liverpool man has been formally charged with racially abusing Bournemouth forward Antoine Semenyo during a Premier League match at Anfield. The incident is alleged to have occurred during the Liverpool versus Bournemouth fixture on August 15.

Mark Mogan, of Templehill Close, Dovecot, is charged with a Racially Aggravated Section 5 Public Order offense. Merseyside Police confirmed the charge following an investigation into the alleged abuse.

Section 5 of the Public Order Act 1986 covers abusive or insulting words or behavior, or the display of any writing, sign or other visible representation which is threatening, abusive or insulting, within the hearing or sight of a person likely to be caused harassment, alarm or distress thereby. The racially aggravated element means the offense is perceived to be motivated by hostility based on race or religion.

Mogan has been conditionally bailed and is scheduled to appear at Liverpool Magistrates' Court on December 22. Details of the conditions of his bail have not been disclosed by the police.

The alleged incident took place early in the Premier League season during a match where Liverpool secured a 3-1 victory over Bournemouth. Semenyo played in the game for Bournemouth.

Merseyside Police have a zero-tolerance approach to hate crime and discrimination and take reports of such incidents seriously. They encourage anyone who has been a victim of hate crime to come forward and report it.

The investigation is ongoing, and Merseyside Police are appealing for any witnesses to come forward who may have information that could assist with the case. They are urging anyone with information to contact them directly or to reach out to Crimestoppers anonymously.

This incident underscores the ongoing challenges within football regarding racism and discrimination. Governing bodies and clubs have launched numerous campaigns aimed at tackling the issue, but incidents continue to occur both on and off the pitch. The focus remains on identifying and punishing perpetrators while educating fans and players about the impact of discriminatory behavior.

The case against Mogan will be closely monitored by anti-racism groups and football authorities, as it highlights the importance of holding individuals accountable for their actions and sending a clear message that racism will not be tolerated in football or society.