Luis Suárez's disciplinary hearing for allegedly racially abusing Patrice Evra has begun in secrecy, the Guardian can reveal.
The case is expected to last two days, with Suárez and Evra both giving evidence to determine the chain of events that has led to the Liverpool striker facing a long ban if he is found guilty.
Evra claims that Suárez used a racist word "at least 10 times" during Manchester United's 1-1 draw at Anfield on 15 October. Suárez denies the allegations and has been given Liverpool's full backing as he tries to overturn a case that threatens to have huge ramifications for the club's season.
The hearing centres on a disputed version of what was said between the two players. Suárez has admitted words were exchanged but the Uruguayan's defence is understood to focus on the nuances of the Spanish language and cultural differences, arguing that what he said would not be considered offensive for someone of his background in South America.
The complexities of the case have led the FA to look closely at the semantics issue and explain why the case is expected to take longer than usual.