Jose Mourinho handed deadline to respond to FA charges

JOSE MOURINHO has until 6pm on Friday to explain his recent comments to the FA about referee Anthony Taylor.

By Jeremy Cross, Chief Sports Writer                                  

TROUBLE: Mourinho could be fined by the FA

FA bosses have contacted the Manchester United boss for his observations over claims the Manchester-based official would find it 'difficult' to handle his side's clash at Liverpool on Monday night.

Supporters, pundits and former referees questioned Taylor's appointment for the game - which ended in a goalless draw at Anfield.

Keith Hackett, former head of Premier League referees, also joined the debate which questioned the close proximity of Taylor's home to Old Trafford.

When asked about the situation last week, Mourinho insisted he thought Taylor would be under too much pressure.

He said: "Somebody with intention is putting such a pressure on him. I feel that it will be difficult for him to have a very good performance."

Bosses are banned from commenting about the performance of referees before or after a game.

Mourinho has now risked an FA charge relating to media comments if he is found to be in breach of regulation E3.

The FA have now demanded a response from the Portuguese about the reasons for his remarks.

Mourinho could be charged with breaching the FA's guidelines on media comments about referees and face a potential fine, rather than a more serious stadium ban.