Newcastle midfielder Emre has denied a Football Association charge of using racially-aggravated and/or insulting words against Everton last month.

The charge relates to an alleged incident during Newcastle's Premiership match at Goodison Park on December 30th.

The Turkey international, who has maintained his innocence since the allegations were made, has requested a personal hearing.

Everton goalkeeper Tim Howard and defenders Joleon Lescott and Joseph Yobo reacted furiously towards the 26-year-old after the visitors were awarded a penalty in the 3-0 defeat.

Referee Dermot Gallagher did not hear the alleged comments, and the FA wrote to Everton to request further information after Newcastle manager Glenn Roeder claimed afterwards there was "no charge to be answered".

The midfielder was charged, however, and given until January 29th to respond.

An FA statement read: "Newcastle United's Belozoglu Emre has denied a charge of using racially-aggravated abusive and/or insulting words and has requested a personal hearing."

Arsenal midfielder Alexander Hleb has been ruled out for at least a month with a hamstring injury, manager Arsene Wenger has confirmed.