FA investigate Sommeil claims of racism

The Football Association have written to Manchester City defender David Sommeil following allegations he was racially abused by Arsenal's Robin van Persie during the Premiership clash at Eastlands on Thursday.

During the first half of City's 3-1 defeat to the Gunners, Sommeil informed referee Graham Poll that Van Persie had racially abused him, prompting the official to speak to representatives of both clubs at half-time.

The FA are now awaiting Sommeil's response before deciding whether to launch an formal inquiry.

"We went to see Graham Poll at half-time and he informed us there had been an allegation of racial abuse," confirmed City boss Stuart Pearce.

"None of my players mentioned it to me at half-time or after the game but if someone does come and speak to me about it, it will be taken very seriously."