English FA to investigate social media post by Manchester United's Edinson Cavani

Uruguayan striker used language which contained a Spanish phrase that could be construed as offensive in some context

Soccer Football - Premier League - Southampton v Manchester United - St Mary's Stadium, Southampton, Britain - November 29, 2020 Manchester United's Edinson Cavani celebrates scoring their second goalShow more

The English Football Association is examining a deleted social media post by Manchester United striker Edinson Cavani which contained a Spanish phrase that could be construed as offensive in some contexts.

The Uruguay international inspired United to a 3-2 comeback win at Southampton on Sunday, with two goals and an assist after coming off the bench at half time.

Replying to a message of congratulations on Instagram, Cavani wrote in Spanish: "Gracias negrito", which translates as "thanks small black person" in English. The post appeared shortly after the match and has now been deleted.

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Cavani, 33, could face a minimum three-game ban if the FA deems he used discriminatory or racist language under its Rule E3.

Former Liverpool striker Luis Suarez, Cavani's Uruguay teammate, received an eight-match ban for using the same word in his on-field clash with United's French defender Patrice Evra in 2011.

United and Cavani are yet to respond to the development.

The FA issued guidelines pre-season clamping down on racist and discriminatory language and behaviour, with offences on social media carrying a minimum three-game ban.

Manchester City's Bernardo Silva and Dele Alli of Tottenham were both suspended for one match last season after posts that breached the guidelines.