Birmingham City Football Club News

• Nickname:Blues
• Founded:1875
• Manager:Chris Hughton

• Ground:St Andrew's
• Capacity:30,016

FA derby charges for Blues

28 Apr 2010 - 07:41:28

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Birmingham City have been charged by the Football Association following last weekend's controversial 1-0 derby defeat to Aston Villa.

Villa won 1-0 at home on Sunday following an 83rd minute penalty from James Milner.

The spot-kick was awarded after referee Martin Atkinson ruled that defender Roger Johnson had tripped Gabriel Agbonlahor in the box.

Television replays showed the centre-half had touched the ball before sending Agbonlahor tumbling in the box.

The Blues have now been charged with 'failing to ensure their players conduct themselves in an orderly fashion' by the FA.

Defender Stephen Carr has also been charged with improper conduct after allegedly making an offensive gesture to fans.

Meanwhile, Johnson has been asked to explain his comments following his severe criticism of Atkinson's handling of the game.

Speaking after the game, Johnson had fumed: "The referee was a disgrace. He's ruined the match and clearly shouldn't be doing these kind of games - it was too big for him.

"I got the ball cleanly, everyone could see that, and the ref can't make a decision if he's not sure.

"The rules say if you're not sure, you don't give a penalty."