Mourinho charged over referee comments

53-year-old questioned Anthony Taylor's suitability to take charge of October 17 game at Anfield

LONDON: Manchester United manager Jose Mourinho was on Thursday charged with misconduct over comments he made about the referee in charge of this month's Liverpool game, the Football Association has announced.

United's outspoken Portuguese boss faces a disciplinary hearing after questioning referee Anthony Taylor's suitability to take charge of the October 17 game at Anfield.

Penitent Mourinho humbled by Manchester United support

The Altrincham-based official's appointment for the Premier League derby had led former English top flight referee Keith Hackett to claim the appointment would place undue pressure on Taylor.

And when those comments were put to Mourinho ahead of the match, the United boss 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."

Mourinho was contacted by the FA for his observations on the comments and the body has now charged him with misconduct.

The clash between the arch rivals resulted in a drab goalless draw.