The FA has charged the Manchester United defender Patrice Evra and the Chelsea groundsman Sam Bethell with improper conduct, following an altercation after the Premier League match between the teams at Stamford Bridge on April 26.

Bethell has also been charged with using abusive language aggravated by reference to nationality or race, while Rio Ferdinand, also involved in an incident with a Chelsea steward, has been "reminded of his responsibilities to the game" but has not been charged after apologising.

"The charges are the result of a thorough investigation conducted by The FA over the past three months," read an FA statement. "In bringing the charges, The FA used video evidence, CCTV footage and various witness statements from individuals present."

As a player, the punishment for Evra, if found guilty, ranges from a fine to a ban. No date for a hearing has been set and with both clubs on pre-season trips, it may be a while before it is arranged.