Gus Poyet denies FA charge of improper conduct

Sunderland boss Gus Poyet has denied his FA improper conduct charge and requested a personal hearing in relation to his touchline row with Steve Bruce.

Poyet was charged with improper conduct after kicking over a crate holding water bottles after referee Mike Reed booked Jack Rodwell for diving during the 1-1 draw at Hull last Tuesday night.

Fourth official Darren Bond advised Reed to send Poyet to the stands but the Uruguayan then approached Bruce on the touchline at the KC Stadium.

Words were exchanged before Poyet offered to shake the hand of Bruce, who refused. Poyet then sarcastically clapped as an angry Bruce had to be restrained by officials.

The FA charged Poyet in the aftermath while Bruce was contacted by the governing body to be reminded of his responsibilities.