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| The allegations centre around a game at Loftus Road in October |
England captain John Terry will face a criminal charge of using racist language towards footballer Anton Ferdinand during a Premier League game.
Mr Terry is alleged to have used racist language towards the 26-year-old Queens Park Rangers player during Chelsea's 1-0 defeat at Loftus Road on 23 October.
The Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) said Mr Terry was accused of a racially aggravated public order offence.
The 31-year-old vowed to fight the charge "tooth and nail".
Police questioned the Chelsea captain under caution in November and a file on the matter was sent to the CPS at the beginning of December.
'I am disappointed'Alison Saunders, chief crown prosecutor for London, said: "I have today advised the Metropolitan Police that John Terry should be prosecuted for a racially aggravated public order offence following comments allegedly made during a football match between Queens Park Rangers and Chelsea on 23 October.
"The decision was taken in accordance with the Code for Crown Prosecutors and, after careful consideration of all the evidence, I am satisfied there is sufficient evidence for a realistic prospect of conviction and it is in the public interest to prosecute this case."
She continued: "He is now summonsed with a criminal offence and has the right to a fair trial.
"It is extremely important that nothing should be reported which could prejudice his trial."
The decision to charge Mr Terry was taken after police received a complaint from a member of the public.
Mr Ferdinand has only said he has "very strong" feelings on the subject.
John Terry said: "I am disappointed with the decision to charge me and hope to be given the chance to clear my name as quickly as possible.
"I have never aimed a racist remark at anyone and count people from all races and creeds among my closest friends.
"I will fight tooth and nail to prove my innocence."
He added: "I have campaigned against racism and believe there is no place for it in society."
The defender made his England debut against Serbia and Montenegro in 2003 and has been capped 72 times.
He replaced David Beckham as captain of the national side in 2006.
The defender has won the Premier League winner three times with Chelsea, but missed a penalty in a shoot-out against Manchester United which would have won them the 2008 Champions League.
A statement released by Chelsea read: "John has made it clear he denies the charge and is determined to do all he can to prove his innocence.
"Chelsea FC has always been fully supportive of John in this matter and will continue to be so.
"The club finds all forms of discrimination abhorrent and we are proud of the work we undertake campaigning on this important issue."
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| John Terry missed a penalty in the 2008 Champions League final |
The club said it could not comment further while the legal process continues.
The FA had put its own investigation on hold until the CPS decision was made. An FA spokesman said the organisation was considering its statement.
Mr Terry is due before West London Magistrates' Court on 1 February.
The maximum sentence for the offence is a fine of £2,500.
As a summary offence under the Crime and Disorder Act, it will be fully heard in a magistrates' court.
The decision to prosecute him comes after Liverpool striker Luis Suarez received an eight-match ban for racially abusing Manchester United defender Patrice Evra.
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