Chelsea manager Jose Mourinho has been charged with misconduct by the Football Association after criticising referees in a seven-minute rant during a television interview on Saturday.

The Portuguese coach, who has guided his team to just two victories in eight Premier League games this season, claimed that match officials are "afraid" to give decisions to Chelsea.

Mourinho made the comments in an interview just minutes after his side suffered a 3-1 defeat to Southampton at Stamford Bridge.

Today, a statement from the FA read: "It is alleged his remarks constitute improper conduct in that they allege and/or imply bias on the part of a match official or match officials and/or bring the game into disrepute."

Mourinho comfortably guided Chelsea to the Premier League title last season, but the club are currently 10 points adrift of leaders Manchester City after eight games.

The 52-year-old has until 6pm on Thursday to respond to the charge.