The English Football Association are to launch a second investigation into claims that Newcastle midfielder Emre used racist language.

A newspaper report today alleged the 26-year-old Turkey international made a comment to Bolton striker El-Hadji Diouf during a game at St James' Park in October.

Emre has already been charged by the FA with using racially-aggravated language during the defeat at Everton on December 30th.

An FA spokesman said: "We will be looking into these allegations and will be contacting El-Hadji Diouf to see if he wishes to provide us with a statement."

Newcastle, who have vowed to defend their £4 million signing over the Everton incident, were not commenting on today's development.

But the player's agent, Ahmet Bulut, insisted his client is innocent.   "This is not a true story," he said.

Emre was charged after Newcastle's 3-0 defeat by Everton at Goodison Park. He became embroiled in an angry row with Tim Howard, Joleon Lescott and Joseph Yobo after his side was awarded a penalty late in the first half.

The latest controversy surrounds Bolton's 2-1 Premiership victory at St James' Park on October 15th in which Diouf scored both his side's goals as the visitors fought back to win.

Former Inter Milan star Emre has not played for the club since the 2-2 draw with Manchester United on New Year's Day as he recovers from a calf problem.  PA