Manchester United forward Cristiano Ronaldo has not accepted an improper conduct charge from the Football Association.
Video footage last season appeared to show Ronaldo slapping a mobile out of a young fan's hand following United's defeat at Goodison Park in April.
Taking to his Instagram account after the match, Ronaldo posted: “It’s never easy to deal with emotions in difficult moments such as the one we are facing. Nevertheless, we always have to be respectful, patient and set the example for all the youngsters who love the beautiful game.
“I would like to apologise for my outburst and, if possible, I would like to invite this supporter to watch a game at Old Trafford as a sign of fair play and sportsmanship.”
Ronaldo was subsequently handed a police caution in August and was last month charged by the FA. United issued a statement in response "supporting the player in his response to the charge."
Ronaldo needed to respond to the charge by Monday and, speaking to reporters on Wednesday, manager Erik ten Hag confirmed Ronaldo will defend himself.
Ten Hag said: "We talked about that and he will not accept it."
Subsequent reports suggest the player will, in fact, accept the charge but fight a ban - with Ten Hag not fully interpreting the question in Wednesday’s press conference.
Ronaldo will now defend himself in a hearing with the FA, but could still face punishment over six months on from the incident.
