City boss Mancini charged over Moyes touchline row

Manchester City manager Roberto Mancini has been charged with improper conduct by the Football Association after his touchline clash with Everton boss David Moyes.

Mancini barged into Moyes during the final moments of Wednesday’s 2-0 defeat by Everton at Eastlands while trying to grab the ball from the Toffees’ manager, who was holding onto it in what the Italian perceived to be an act of time-wasting.

The pair had to be separated by fourth official Howard Webb before referee Peter Walton sent both coaches to the stands.

Having considered Walton’s report, the FA have decided to charge Mancini.

Moyes has escaped a charge but the FA have written to the Scot to remind him of his responsibilities and conduct.

Mancini has until April 6 to respond to the charge and an FA regulatory commission will hear the charge by April 19.

The brief bust-up didn’t seem to bother Moyes, who admitted on Friday that Mancini had apologised for losing his cool.

“It was nothing really, and I’ve no problem with Roberto,” Moyes said.

“He was fine immediately afterwards, he apologised walking down the tunnel, and I have no problem at all with him, you just get along with it.”