Battle of Bridge was 'racist'

Manchester United will tell the Football Association that Patrice Evra was racially abused during the Battle of the Bridge on Saturday.

At least two United players claim they heard the insult during clashes with Chelsea groundstaff and officials as they took part in a warm-down following the 2-1 defeat.

Chelsea maintain that there was no racist element and groundsman Sam Bethell has insisted he did nothing wrong.

United believe Evra was called an "immigrant", whereas Chelsea insist the word that was used was "idiot".

However, it seems certain details of the incident will be aired at an FA hearing after United's lawyers prepared to compile a full report after tonight's semi-final against Barcelona is out of the way.

There is doubt about whether Evra heard the comment and the alleged insult is believed to have been made only after the defender had traded blows with the groundsman.

Club lawyer Maurice Watkins will give particular credence to the views of United coach Mike Phelan and fitness coach Tony Strudwick.