Chelsea charged over Fulham fracas

LONDON, Mar 23 (Reuters) Chelsea have been charged with failing to control their players after their Premier League match at Fulham on March 19 ended in chaos, the FA today said.

The game, won 1-0 by Fulham, ended in a mass shoving match sparked by a wild lunge by Chelsea defender William Gallas, who was sent off.

Referee Mike Dean and his assistant Andy Williams reported to The FA that, in their view, a number of players had surrounded Williams in an aggressive manner.

The FA has written to William Gallas warning him about his future conduct after he gestured to Fulham fans following the sending-off.

The Frenchman gave a thumbs-down signal to the home supporters, who baited him as he walked to the tunnel.

The FA is also investigating the pitch invasion following the final whistle and has requested detailed reports from the police and Fulham.

Chelsea have until April 7 to respond to the charge.

Reuters SY DB2246