Alan Pardew charged by FA for improper conduct

The action relates to comments made before the Magpies' derby away to Sunderland (GETTY IMAGES)

Newcastle manager Alan Pardew has been charged with improper conduct by the Football Association.

The governing body announced the charge today, revealing the action relates to comments made before the Magpies' derby away to Sunderland on August 20.

They have not specified which comment prompted the charge but it is believed to relate to the appointment of Howard Webb as referee and his role in the match, which Newcastle won 1-0.

Pardew has until 4pm on Monday to respond.