The charge relates to an incident in the 43rd minute of Chelsea's game against West Bromwich Albion on 4 March when several Chelsea players surrounded referee Mark Halsey following a foul by West Brom's Ronnie Wallwork.

Halsey reported the incident to The FA and expressed his view that a number of Chelsea players pressurised him at this time.

This charge follows guidance sent to clubs by The FA in January 2005, and repeated prior to the start of the 2005-06 season, that the Disciplinary Committee was seriously concerned at the increasing incidence of players vehemently approaching Match Officials apparently with the intention of seeking changes in decisions.

The Committee indicated that a proven case of intimidation or harassment by three or more players of one club would be considered a breach of FA Rules.

The referee also reported a second incident in the 61st minute of the match involving players of both clubs which occurred after a foul by Chelsea's Arjen Robben.

Following further consultation with Mr Halsey, it was decided that the conduct of players at the time of this incident did not warrant formal disciplinary action against either club under the guidelines set out by the Disciplinary Committee.

The FA has, however, in light of this incident, written to both clubs to remind them of their responsibilities.

Chelsea have until 23 March 2006 to respond.

Note

FA Rule E20. Each Affiliated Association, Competition and Club shall be responsible for ensuring:

(a) that its directors, players, officials, employees, servants, representatives, spectators, and all persons purporting to be its supporters or followers, conduct themselves in an orderly fashion and refrain from any one or combination of the following: racist, violent, threatening, abusive, obscene or provocative behaviour, conduct or language whilst attending at or taking part in a Match in which it is involved, whether on its own ground or elsewhere.