Fulham striker Mitrovic facing lengthy ban after red card at Manchester United

Aleksandar Mitrovic is set for a lengthy ban after being charged with violent and improper conduct during Fulham’s FA Cup defeat at Manchester United.

The Serbian striker was red carded by referee Chris Kavanagh.

Mitrovic had scored to put the west London club ahead at Old Trafford but was incensed when the official sent off Willian for handballing on the goal-line. The Brazilian was also dismissed for the offence with manager Marco Silva dismissed as well.

“The standard punishment which would otherwise apply to Aleksandar Mitrovic for the sending-off offence of violent conduct that he committed towards the match referee is clearly insufficient,” said an FA statement.

“In addition, Aleksandar Mitrovic’s behaviour and/or language was allegedly improper and/or abusive and/or insulting and/or threatening following his dismissal.”

There have been calls in some quarters for Mitrovic to be slapped with a 10-match ban.

The FA added: “It’s alleged that Marco Silva used abusive and/or insulting words and/or gestures and/or behaviour towards the match referee; that he used abusive and/or insulting words towards the fourth official prior to his dismissal; and that he also used abusive and/or insulting words and/or gestures and/or behaviour towards the fourth official after being sent off.

“It’s further alleged that in throwing a water bottle in the direction of the assistant referee that his behaviour was improper.”

Fulham lost the tie 3-1 to end hopes of a first FA Cup semi-final spot since 2002.