The charge relates to his comment about Manchester United’s Ruud van Nistelrooy in a post-match media interview following the Premier League match at Old Trafford on Sunday 24 October. He has until 23 November to respond to the charge.

There will be no formal disciplinary action on any other matters related to the match.

However, The FA Chairman Geoff Thompson has written to both clubs to request a meeting with their representatives and the Premier League to avoid any repeat of the adverse publicity that surrounded the game.


FA Rule E3 - General Behaviour
A Participant shall at all times act in the best interests of the game and shall not act in any manner which is improper or brings the game into disrepute or use any one, or a combination of, violent conduct, serious foul play, threatening, abusive, indecent or insulting words or behaviour.