Sunderland boss David Moyes charged over slap threat to female reporter

Sunderland boss David Moyes has been charged by the FA after threatening to slap a female reporter.

The incident happened in a post-match interview after the Premier League strugglers drew 0-0 with Burnley on 18 March.

His remarks to BBC reporter Vicki Sparks were caught on camera.

The FA said in a statement on Wednesday that it had charged Moyes over the comments.

"It is alleged the Sunderland manager's remarks were improper and/or threatening and/or brought the game into disrepute, contrary to FA Rule E3(1).

"He has until 6pm on 3 May 2017 to reply to the charge."

Sparks had asked Moyes if the presence of Sunderland owner Ellis Short at the game had put him under more pressure as the club battled relegation.

He replied: "No, none at all."

But footage showed Moyes, who thought he was off camera, adding: "You were just getting a wee bit naughty at the end there, so just watch yourself.

"You still might get a slap, even though you're a woman.

"Careful the next time you come in."

The two were laughing at the time and Ms Sparks did not make a complaint, but Moyes said he later phoned her to apologise and deeply regretted his comments.

Sunderland backed Moyes, but said his remarks were "wholly unacceptable and such actions are not condoned or excused in any way".

Domestic abuse charity Wearside Women In Need described Moyes' comments as "appalling" at the time, and urged the FA "to set a clear standard about what they think is acceptable".