The war of words between English Premiership sides Newcastle and Gloucester over alleged racist comments made by hooker Olivier Azam took another twist on Monday when the Rugby Football Union (RFU) said it had received an official complaint.

"The RFU can confirm it has received a written formal complaint from Newcastle Falcons alleging racial abuse," an official statement from English rugby union's governing body said.

"It is anticipated that supporting statements will be produced at the hearings on Thursday resulting from the sending off of Olivier Azam (pictured) and Epeli Taione," it continued. "Once the evidence has been received and considered the RFU will issue a further statement."

Newcastle director of rugby Rob Andrew has accused Azam of racially abusing Tongan flanker Taione during an incident which saw both men sent off during Gloucester's 29-25 win on December 29.

Andrew alleged that Azam had called Taione a "black bastard."

On Saturday former England flyhalf Andrew, nicknamed 'squeaky' during his own playing career for an unblemished disciplinary record, was banned from Gloucester's Kingsholm ground.

"It has been a bad week for everyone down here. It should not be underestimated the impact this has had on the club, the community and the entire county of Gloucestershire," Gloucester owner Tom Walkinshaw said on Saturday.

"We have had e-mails from all over the West Country, and all over the world, stating how offended they are by the remarks Andrew made."

Both Azam and Taione had been sent off in the 10th minute by referee Roy Maybank following an ugly and protracted brawl among the forwards. In a statement issued on Saturday, Azam apologised for the brawl but denied racism.

"While I regret allowing myself to become involved in a physical encounter, I would like to once more categorically deny the allegations of racism made by Rob Andrew towards myself after the game against Newcastle last weekend.

"I have never made any such remark to another person. My mother is French and I was born in France. My father is Moroccan. In French culture this makes me technically 'non-white' myself so it makes the allegation even more crazy.

"In addition to this, many of my teammates and friends at Gloucester Rugby Club and in France are from different ethnic backgrounds. I feel these allegations have damaged my reputation and character beyond repair and could have a detrimental effect on my future playing career.

"I would therefore like a public apology from Rob Andrew or I will consider taking legal action against him in order to clear my name." - Sapa