The FA wouldn’t be trying to bury bad news tonight, would they?

So a few hours before the biggest sporting event on Earth, guess what news the FA decided to release?

With the papers likely to be rather full of other, probably Olympic, news tomorrow, the FA chose this evening to release the news that John Terry has been charged over the Anton Ferdinand affair.

In a statement in their website the lads who run football over the water say:

"After seeking advice from an external Independent QC, and having considered the evidence and Magistrates' Court decision in the John Terry case, The FA has today charged the Chelsea player following an alleged incident that occurred during the Queens Park Rangers versus Chelsea fixture at Loftus Road on 23 October 2011.

"It is alleged that Terry used abusive and/or insulting words and/or behaviour towards Queens Park Rangers’ Anton Ferdinand, contrary to FA rules.

"It is further alleged that this included a reference to the ethnic origin and/or colour and/or race of Anton Ferdinand.

"This charge is the result of The FA’s long-standing enquiries into this matter, which were placed on hold pending the outcome of the criminal trial, and relates to rules governing football only.

"During this period John Terry remains available to play for England.

"Terry has until 3 August 2012 to respond."

It is reported that Terry denies the charge and the Chelsea man has also requested a private hearing into the matter. This will run for a while yet folks.

And while the FA will deny that they timed the news to coincide with the Olympics, you might recall that the Luis Suarez verdict was released late on New Year’s Eve. Coincidences, eh?