Tyne-Wear rivals charged by FA

Newcastle and Sunderland have been charged with misconduct by the Football Association after a stormy Tyne-Wear derby.

The charges relate to an incident which followed Black Cats winger James McClean's 19th-minute challenge on Magpies full-back Danny Simpson.

An FA statement said: "Newcastle United and Sunderland have both been charged with misconduct following the match between the two sides on Sunday, March 4, 2012.

"The charge is that the clubs failed to ensure their players conducted themselves in an orderly fashion and/or refrained from provocative behaviour and is in relation to an incident which occurred in the 19th minute following a challenge by Sunderland's James McClean on Newcastle's Danny Simpson.

"Both clubs have until 4pm on March 12, 2012 to respond to the charge."

PA