FA charges Terry with racially abusing opponent

London, England (Sports Network) - John Terry was charged Friday with racially abusing an opponent by the English Football Association.

Terry was cleared of charges of racially abusing Queens Park Rangers defender Anton Ferdinand by a court two weeks ago, but the FA has charged the Chelsea captain with the same offense.

"It is alleged that Terry used abusive and/or insulting words and/or behavior towards Queens Park Rangers' Anton Ferdinand, contrary to FA rules," the FA said in a statement. "It is further alleged that this included a reference to the ethnic origin and/or color and/or race of Anton Ferdinand."

Terry has until Aug. 3 to respond to the charges, but has maintained innocence in the matter. He is eligible to play for England.