Man Utd charged by FA over failure to control players

Manchester United have been charged by the FA for failing to control their player during a flashpoint in Tuesday night’s Premier League win over Brighton.

United players including Cristiano Ronaldo and Bruno Fernandes angrily confronted referee Peter Bankes when Brighton defender Lewis Dunk fouled Anthony Elanga just outside the penalty area. There was also some pushing and shoving and players were dragged away by others.

Bankes initially showed a yellow card, but a VAR review saw the official change his mind and upgrade the card to red, giving Dunk his marching orders.

An FA statement read: “It is alleged that Manchester United FC failed to ensure its players conducted themselves in an orderly fashion during the 53rd minute.”

The Red Devils have until Monday 21 February to respond to the charge.

It was only moments before the red card that Ronaldo broke the deadlock, scoring his first goal of 2022 in the process and sending United on their way to a first Premier League win since 22 January. Fernandes later made sure of the win with a second goal deep into stoppage time.

United moved back into the Premier League top four ahead of West Ham thanks to the three points. They have, however, played three games more than sixth-placed Arsenal and the Gunners could overtake them in due course if they win those games in hand.

Tottenham also have three games in hand and are seven points behind. Wolves have two to play and are six points back.

For more from Jamie Spencer, follow him on Twitter and Facebook!