Sunderland boss Gus Poyet refutes FA improper conduct charge

Sunderland boss Gus Poyet had denied his charge of improper conduct by the Football Association following his touchline spat with Steve Bruce in his side's draw with Hull City last week.

The Uruguayan kicked over a crate of water bottles and then rowed with the Tigers manager after sarcastically clapping his opposite number, which resulted in Bruce being restrained by the linesman as referee Mike Dean sent Poyet to the stands.

Bruce escaped the incident with a warning but the 47-year-old was charged by the FA, which he has now challenged and has requested a personal hearing in the near future.

Sunderland are 16th in the Premier League, four points clear of the relegation zone, ahead of their clash against Aston Villa on Saturday.