London, Oct 19: Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson has been charged with improper conduct by the FA for his remarks over referee Alan Wiley''s fitness.

After Man U's 2-2 draw against Sunderland on 3 October, Ferguson had said: "The pace of the game demanded a referee who was fit. He (Wiley) was not fit."

Though Ferguson did apologize to Wiley, he could face a hefty fine or a touchline ban if he is found guilty.

"Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson has been charged with improper conduct," The Independent quoted a FA statement, as saying.

"The charge relates to media comments made by Ferguson about referee Alan Wiley following United''s match against Sunderland at Old Trafford on October 3. He has until November 3 to respond to the charge," the statement added. (ANI)