The charge relates to an incident involving Ashley Cole during the match between Manchester United and Arsenal on Sunday, 24 October 2004.

Van Nistelrooy is required to admit or deny the charge by Tuesday 26 October, with the case scheduled to be heard by a Disciplinary Commission on Thursday 28 October.

Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger has been asked to explain his post-match comments about van Nistelrooy and referee Mike Riley.

The FA is also looking into reports of an alleged incident in the tunnel after the match.

We will keep you updated with news on any of these issues as and when we have it.