The FA rules require participants “at all times act in the best interests of the game" and not "act in any manner which is improper or brings the game into disrepute or use any one, or a combination of, violent conduct, serious foul play, threatening, abusive, indecent or insulting words or behaviour.”
Mr Pope’s breach is alleged to be “aggravated” as “it included a reference, whether expressed or implied, to race and/or religion and/or ethnic origin,” the FA said.
According to the FA rulebook, such a breach could lead to a five-match suspension, which may be increased “depending on any additional aggravating factors present”.
A club statement said that Mr Pope “strongly denies the allegations” and would “vigorously defend the charge.”
