Rafael Accepts FA Charge

United defender Rafael will attend a personal hearing on Friday after accepting the FA's improper conduct charge.

The young Brazilian was charged on Monday for his "conduct towards match official Mike Dean" following his red card in Sunday's 0-0 draw at Tottenham.

He was given until 18:00 today (Tuesday) to respond to the charge. A statement issued by the FA read as follows:

"Rafael da Silva has today accepted an FA charge of Improper Conduct.

"The charge relates to his conduct towards match official Mike Dean during United’s fixture with Tottenham Hotspur on 16 January.

"Rafael has requested a personal hearing, which will take place before an Independent Regulatory Commission on Friday 21 January."

Speaking exclusively to ManUtd.com, Rafael issued the following reaction: “I’ve accepted the charge because what I did was wrong.

"It happened because I was so frustrated at being sent off in such an important game. I apologise for my behaviour.”