Sunderland and Lee Johnson charged by the FA after Lincoln bust-up

Players and staff, including Sunderland head coach Lee Johnson, involved in a heated exchange during the Sky Bet League One match at the Stadium of Light, Sunderland.
Players and staff, including Sunderland head coach Lee Johnson, were involved in a heated exchange during Lincoln's 3-1 win over Sunderland in Sky Bet League One. Credit: PA Images

By Digital Content Editor Dominic Hewitson

Sunderland AFC and Lincoln City have both been charged by the FA after a fracas occurred on the touchline during Black Cats' 3-1 defeat last Tuesday.

Manager Lee Johnson is also facing an individual charge after he received a red card following the incident.

The bust-up took place in stoppage time after Sunderland defender Calum Doyle tackled Lincoln captain Conor McGrandles right next to the touchline where Lee Johnson was standing.

The fiery encounter boiled over onto the touchline as both players and staff from both side's tried to break up the incident. Credit: PA Images

A statement from the FA reads: "Sunderland AFC and Lincoln City FC have been charged with a breach of FA Rule E20.1 following their EFL League One game on Tuesday 11 January 2022.

"It is alleged that both clubs failed to ensure their players conducted themselves in an orderly fashion and/or refrained from provocative behaviour during the 95th minute.

"Sunderland AFC and Lincoln City FC have until Wednesday 19 January 2022 to provide their respective responses."

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Sunderland manager Lee Johnson is also facing another charge after he received a red card following the incident.

The statement added: "In addition, Lee Johnson has been charged with two breaches of FA Rule E3.1.

"It is alleged that the Sunderland AFC manager's conduct during the 95th minute of this game was also improper and/or violent, and it was also improper following his sending off.

"He too has until Wednesday 19 January 2022 to provide a response."