Liverpool's Mario Balotelli racism-row defence to FA uses slurs and discrimination he's had aimed at him

Striker in hot water over an Instagram post many found offensive argues that was never his intention because he knows first-hand how much such abuse hurts

Mario Balotelli has offered his defence to a possible FA charge, by delivering examples of the many cases of discrimination he has suffered as a footballer.
The Liverpool striker was given until 6pm on Friday to provide observations to an investigation by the game’s governing body, relating to a message he posted on his Instagram site which contained a message which many have found racially offensive.
The Italian, in his submission, has made clear his social media post was meant as a strong anti-racist statement, and he did not understand the potential for it to be misinterpreted.

Under new rules governing the use of social media by players, any posts or images found to be racist will result in a minimum five game ban, and strong action will be taken against any offender who uses inappropriate or discriminatory language.
Rio Ferdinand was banned for three matches for using a slang term in a manner found to be gender offensive, and Balotelli fears he will suffer an even more severe punishment, despite his intentions.

Apology: Balotelli took to social media to try to explain his actions

The Reds' forward has made clear in his observations that he has felt the full force of racist abuse throughout his career, and would never intentionally do that to others.
He has apologised for his post, which showed the gaming character Super Mario, referenced by a clear anti-racist message, but with the addition of two terms portraying racial stereotyping below.

Balotelli was the victim of such severe racist abuse whilst playing in Italy, that he threatened to walk off the pitch the next time it happened. In one game against Roma whilst playing for Milan, the game was suspended while appeals were made to the crowd.
He was even racially abused by his own country’s supporters whilst playing for Italy, and this season with new club Liverpool, racist messages sent to his Twitter account were investigated by police.

The striker is hoping the FA will take his history and his commitment to anti-racist efforts into account, avoiding the pursuit of ban.
A specially commissioned committee will now investigate the matter after receiving the player’s observations, and deliver a verdict by early next week at the latest.