Sport Forward: FA charges Bruce with misconduct

Turner was shown a straight red by referee Mariner at Eastlands

The Football Association has charged Sunderland manager Steve Bruce with improper conduct following last month's 4-3 defeat at Manchester City.

Bruce criticised referee Andre Mariner for sending off Michael Turner after a challenge with City's Gareth Barry.

"The red was obscene. He'll miss three games unless the ref has the guts to rescind it," Bruce said after the game.

Sunderland appealed against Turner's ban but their case was dismissed and the suspension increased to four games.

Sunderland battled back from 2-0 and 3-2 down at Eastlands before Roque Santa Cruz's late goal put City 4-3 ahead.

Any hope of another Black Cats comeback was halted when Turner was shown a straight red card for an elbow on Barry.

At the time, Bruce also claimed that his previous criticisms of Marriner had counted against him.

"Because I have complained about him, I get that decision," he said.

"I hope he can have a look at it and he can see it was a shuddering challenge between two of the most honest professionals you are going to get."

Bruce has been given until 20 January to respond to the charge.

Sport Forward