Manchester United defender Harry Maguire has been charged with improper conduct by the Football Association following his red card in the 2-2 draw with Bournemouth. The England international is accused of using abusive or insulting words towards fourth official Matt Donohue after being dismissed.
Maguire was shown a straight red card by referee Stuart Attwell for pulling back Bournemouth's Evanilson, conceding a penalty that Junior Kroupi converted. The 33-year-old is already suspended for United's next match against Leeds United on 13 April, but the FA charge could result in an extended ban that would also rule him out of the trip to Chelsea five days later.
The FA confirmed the charge in a statement, saying: 'Harry Maguire has been charged for improper conduct after being sent off against Bournemouth. It is alleged that he acted in an improper manner and/or used abusive and/or insulting words and/or behaviour towards the fourth official.' Maguire has until 2 April to respond.
Maguire, who has been a regular starter under manager Michael Carrick and earned a recall to the England squad, is reportedly close to signing a new contract at Old Trafford. United could have Lisandro Martinez back from injury for the Leeds game, offering some compensation for Maguire's absence.
The club has submitted a complaint to the Professional Game Match Officials Limited about the officiating in the Bournemouth match, with Carrick describing several decisions as 'baffling', though he did not dispute Maguire's dismissal.
