Sir Alex Ferguson could face a four-match ban after being charged with improper conduct by the FA over his criticism of Martin Atkinson's officiating in Manchester United's defeat to Chelsea, according to reports.

The Scot criticised a number of decisions from Atkinson, in particular, his failure to send off David Luiz in the second half after a series of fouls by the Brazilian. Ferguson will meet with United’s disciplinary consultant, who could advise the 69-year-old to admit the charge in order to keep the ban to a minimum. But the Daily Mirror report the Old Trafford may be hit with a substantial reprimand following his comments should be fail to admit his actions.

"You hope you get a really strong referee in games like this. It was a major game for both clubs and you want a fair referee, you know?" Ferguson told MUTV.

"You want a strong referee, anyway, and we didn’t get that. I don’t know why he’s got the game. I must say that, when I saw who was refereeing it, I feared the worst."

Fergsuson, if found guilty, could be banned for two games, but another two-match suspension incurred following his remarks towards Alan Wiley in 2009 - which he has not yet served - would come into play, ruling him out for a total of four games.