Man Utd coach Fletcher charged after ref outburst

Manchester United coach Darren Fletcher has been charged with misconduct by the Football Association (FA) for allegedly abusing the match officials at half-time during the 2-1 win over Brentford.

Fletcher was in the press box at Old Trafford with United’s analysts, but made his way down to the tunnel area just before the break.

The FA allege that the former United midfielder acted in an “improper and/or confrontational manner” and used “abusive and/or insulting words” towards referee Samuel Barrott and his team.

United were furious that Barrott ordered defender Matthijs de Ligt off the pitch to receive treatment for a head injury and subsequently conceded from a corner while the Dutchman was on the touchline.

Both manager Erik ten Hag and assistant Ruud van Nistelrooy received yellow cards for their protests at the time.

A statement issued by the FA on Friday read: “Darren Fletcher has been charged with misconduct following Manchester United’s fixture against Brentford on Saturday, 20 October, in the Premier League.

“It is alleged that the coach acted in an improper and/or confrontational manner and/or used abusive and/or insulting words towards the fourth official and the referee and/or assistant referees. Darren Fletcher has until Tuesday, 29 October, to respond.”