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A liverpool Man denies racially abusing Bournemouth forward antony semenyo During a match at Anfield earlier this season.
Mark Mogan, 47, of Templehill Close, Dovecote, appeared at Liverpool Magistrates Court on Monday, where he pleaded not guilty to a racially aggravated disorderly conduct offense against the Bournemouth star.
Mogan, who appeared in court in person, spoke only to confirm his name and address and enter his plea.
Mogan’s trial is due to take place on April 22 next year, with Semenyo expected to attend proceedings, the court heard.
Mogan was released on bail on the condition that he not contact Semenyo directly or indirectly, or reference him on social media.
The court was told that as part of his bail conditions he was also banned from attending any regulated football grounds.
Merseyside Police had earlier said that the incident allegedly occurred during the Liverpool vs Bournemouth match in the Premier League on August 15.
Semenyo reported being racially abused by a spectator during the first Premier League game of the season.
Match referee Anthony Taylor stopped play in the 29th minute and one person was ejected from Anfield Stadium.
Semenyo, 25, scored twice in the second half to help Bournemouth come back from two goals down at Anfield, before Liverpool eventually won 4–2.
A spokesperson for Liverpool Football Club said in August that it was aware of the allegations of racist abuse and that “we condemn racism and discrimination in all its forms, it has no place in society or football”.
The Football Association said it was “concerned” about the allegation of racism towards Semenyo and would ensure that “appropriate action” would be taken.
Bournemouth are due to face Liverpool again in the Premier League next month, this time at the Vitality Stadium.