Jose Mourinho to contest FA charge over 'campaign' comments

Jose Mourinho is contesting a Football Association charge for claiming there is a "campaign" to influence referees' decisions against his Chelsea side.

Mourinho made his comments after his side were denied a penalty in the 1-1 draw with Southampton on 28 December.

Referee Anthony Taylor booked Cesc Fabregas for diving after going down in the box under Matt Targett's challenge.

The Portuguese was handed a misconduct charge and didn't fulfil media duties at last weekend's game with Newcastle.

However, the Chelsea boss will be holding a news conference at the club's training ground on Friday before the Swansea City game on Saturday (15:00 GMT)

An FA statement read: "It is alleged his remarks constitute improper conduct in that they allege and/or imply bias on the part of a referee or referees and/or bring the game into disrepute."

Mourinho picked up the award as Portuguese coach of the century this week at a gala to celebrate the 100th anniversary of the country's football federation

After the draw at St Mary's, the Stamford Bridge manager told BBC Sport: "The media, commentators, other managers are all doing it [putting pressure on referees]."

In his news conference later, he added: "There is a campaign against Chelsea. I don't know why there is this campaign and I do not care.

"Everybody knows it was a penalty."

Mourinho was issued with a formal warning for comments ahead of Chelsea's 2-0 win at Stoke on 22 December.

The Portuguese called on referee Neil Swarbrick to produce a strong performance at the Britannia Stadium.