The Football Association has charged Fulham manager Álvaro Arbeloa with misconduct following comments he made after his side's Premier League draw against Manchester United at Craven Cottage.

Arbeloa alleged that officials were determined to deny Manchester United defeat, a claim that drew swift action from English football's governing body. The spark for his remarks was a late equaliser scored by Michael Carrick's side that cancelled out Fulham's lead and salvaged a draw for the visitors.

What Arbeloa said

The Fulham boss stated that referees would "not let Manchester United lose," a pointed accusation aimed squarely at the standard of officiating during the match. Comments of this nature — directed at the integrity of match officials — fall under the FA's guidelines on improper conduct.

A costly draw for Fulham

The result itself was a blow for Fulham, who had been on course for three points at Craven Cottage before Manchester United struck in the closing stages. The late leveller denied Arbeloa's team a victory that could have proved significant in the Premier League standings.

The FA's misconduct charge now adds another complication for the Fulham manager, who faces a potential fine or touchline ban depending on the outcome of the proceedings. Arbeloa has a set period to respond to the charge.