On Friday afternoon, the following statement appeared on the FA’s website.

“Cesc Fabregas and Phil Brown have both been charged with improper conduct.

“Arsenal midfielder Cesc Fabregas and Hull City manager Phil Brown have both been charged with improper conduct.

“The charges relate to matters arising from the FA Cup match between Arsenal and Hull at the Emirates Stadium on 17 March.

The so called incident

“Fabregas faces two charges of improper conduct relating to his conduct on the pitch following the game. One charge concerns his behaviour in coming onto the pitch after the final whistle, the second charge relates to an alleged spitting incident. The charges are based on submissions from Hull City and video evidence.

“Brown is charged with improper conduct and/or bringing the game into disrepute in relation to media comments made after the game concerning referee Mike Riley.

“Fabregas and Brown have until 12 May to respond.”