Liverpool striker Mario Balotelli has reportedly submitted evidence of racist abuse endured throughout his career to the Football Association in an attempt to avoid a suspension which is hanging over his head.
The 24-year-old, who joined the Reds from AC Milan for a fee of £16m in the summer, has himself been accused of racism and anti-Semitism after posting a controversial image on social media site Instagram earlier this week.
Balotelli was quick to apologise for any offence caused by the post, which contained the phrase: "Don't be racist - be like Mario. He's an Italian plumber created by Japanese people who speaks English and looks like a Mexican ... jumps like a black man and grabs coins like a jew."
ESPN claims that the Italian international has provided his observations to the FA ahead of today's 6pm deadline, and it is now down to the governing body to decide whether to charge the forward with improper conduct.
Should he be found guilty, Balotelli could face up to a five-game suspension.
Daniel Lewis
