Bruce charged by FA

Sunderland manager Steve Bruce has been charged with improper conduct over comments made about referee Andre Marriner.

Bruce spoke out after defender Michael Turner was sent off in his side's 4-3 Barclays Premier League defeat at Manchester City on December 19. Turner was shown the red card after catching Gareth Barry with his elbow, a decision Bruce described as a "joke".

Bruce has been given until January 20 to respond to the charge.

Bruce claimed his previous criticisms of Marriner had counted against him.

"Because I have complained about him, I get that decision," said Bruce at the time.

"I hope he can have a look at it and he can see it was a shuddering challenge between two of the most honest professionals you are going to get."

Sunderland appealed against Turner's three-match ban but their case was dismissed and the suspension increased to four games.