Rio Ferdinand has denied the Football Association's (FA) charge for his improper comments made on Twitter and has sought a hearing with the English footballing body.

The Manchester United defender had responded to a remark on the social networking site labelling Chelsea's Ashley Cole as a "choc ice" following his appearance in court as a defence witness for club and national team-mate John Terry.

The Blues captain was on trial earlier this month for the alleged racial abuse of Ferdinand's younger brother, Anton, but was subsequently acquitted of the charge.

Ferdinand copped the FA charge on Monday, with the association having now released a statement on their official website, saying: "Manchester United's Rio Ferdinand has denied an FA charge of improper conduct in relation to comments posted on Twitter.

"The allegation is that the player acted in a way which was improper and/or brought the game into disrepute by making comments which included a reference to ethnic origin and/or colour and/or race.

"The player has requested a personal hearing."

It is believed the FA is eager to address the issue before the new Premier League season begins on August 18, although Ferdinand's overseas pre-season commitments with United is likely to delay matters.