Ferguson faces conduct charge

Manchester United manager Alex Ferguson yesterday requested a personal hearing with the Football Association after denying a charge of improper conduct.

Ferguson was charged by the FA earlier this month following comments he made after his side's victory against Newcastle at Old Trafford regarding United's lack of penalties.

The Scot suggested there was a 'sinister' reason behind the Red Devils' lack of spot-kicks since Wayne Rooney won a controversial penalty against Arsenal in October.