Pardew hit with FA conduct charge

Pardew took over as Newcastle manager in December 2010

Newcastle manager Alan Pardew has been charged with improper conduct by the Football Association.

Pardew reportedly made comments – believed to have been aimed at referee Howard Webb – prior to his side’s 1-0 win against Sunderland

Pardew was quoted in several newspapers as saying: “The referee needs to make sure he referees the game from a completely neutral point of view.”

Pardew has until 1600 BST on Monday to respond to the charge.

The remarks were made with reference to then Newcastle player Joey Barton, who has since moved to Queens Park Rangers.

After the high-profile midfielder had been the subject of much debate in the media following his involvement in an opening-day clash with Arsenal striker Gervinho, the Magpies boss feared his player could be singled out “because Joey has been in the press a fair bit this week and I’m sure he will get a mention in Sunderland’s game plan.”