English FA charges Mourinho for implying bias by referee

LONDON (AP) - The English Football Association has charged Chelsea manger Jose Mourinho with misconduct for claiming referees are influenced by a "campaign" against the club.

Mourinho made the comments after a 1-1 draw at Southampton on Dec. 28, when Cesc Fabregas was booked for simulation rather than being awarded a penalty.

The FA is alleging Mourinho's "remarks constitute improper conduct in that they allege and/or imply bias on the part of a referee or referees and/or bring the game into disrepute."

Mourinho has until Tuesday to respond to the charge.

Separately, Mourinnho been issued with a formal warning for saying last month's match at Stoke required a "good referee" to spot aggressiveness from the opponent. The FA bans managers from making comments about referees ahead of a match.