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Cape Town - Manchester United boss Jose Mourinho has copped a Football Association (FA) misconduct charge for his comments about referee Anthony Taylor.
Mourinho was asked to comment on the appointment of Taylor ahead of the clash with Liverpool, with the match official's selection for the Anfield fixture raising eyebrows due to his Mancunian roots.
When asked about specific remarks made by Keith Hackett - who said the assignment would put undue pressure on the referee - the Portuguese coach said:
"I think Mr Taylor is a very good referee but I think
somebody with intention is putting such a pressure on him that I feel
that it will be difficult for him to have a very good performance," said Mourinho.
The FA subsequently asked Mourinho to clarify his observations and has now levied a charge against him for brining the game into disrepute.
"Jose Mourinho has been charged with misconduct in respect of comments he made relating to the appointed match referee, prior to the Liverpool v Manchester United fixture on Monday 17 October 2016," a statement from the governing body read.
"It is alleged his comments were improper and/or brought the game into disrepute contrary to FA Rule E3(1). Mr Mourinho has until 6pm on Monday 31 October 2016 to respond to the charge."
Mourinho actually lauded Taylor's performances after the 0-0 draw, despite the ref booking four of his players and none for the Reds.
"Can I speak about the referee without being punished?" he asked United's press officer. "He had a good game and I am happy for him because people with responsibilities put a lot of pressure on him and it was very difficult for him to have a good performance, which he had."
