5 Nov 2008

Keane charged for confronting referee

10:30 am on 5 November 2008

Sunderland's manager Roy Keane has been charged with improper conduct by the Football Association over his behaviour towards a referee.

Keane confronted referee Martin Atkinson in the tunnel at halftime of Sunday's 5-0 Premier League defeat at Chelsea.

The former Manchester United player was unhappy the official had allowed a goal by Nicolas Anelka despite the player appearing to be offside.

Keane was famously hotheaded as a player but has won plaudits for his calm demenour as a manager.

He has until November 19 to respond to a charge that could result in a touchline ban - particularly as the incident seems to contravene the FA's respect initiative.