Villas-Boas is charged by FA

Andre Villas-Boas has been charged with improper conduct for comments he made about referee Chris Foy following Chelsea's 1-0 loss to Queen's Park Rangers last month, the Football Association said yesterday.

Chelsea conceded an early penalty and were reduced to nine men during the match on 23 October, prompting a strong reaction by their manager.

"I think the refereeing today was not good and it is not the first time that has happened to us," Villas-Boas said after the game. "I am very, very disappointed with his performance. He was too emotional."

Villas-Boas has until 4pm on Tuesday to respond.