Soccer:Alex Ferguson has been charged with improper conduct by the Football Association over comments made about referee Howard Webb in the build-up to last Sunday's Premier League title clash between Manchester United and Chelsea at Old Trafford.

Although the comments themselves were innocuous, including a statement that he believed Webb to be the "best man for the job", they contravened FA Rule E3.

Ferguson has until 4pm on May 16th to respond.

Ferguson had said: "We are getting the best referee, there is no doubt about that. But (getting a bad decision) is definitely our big fear.

"We have the players to do it all right. We just hope it's our turn for a little bit of luck."

The problem for Ferguson is they were delivered last Friday, two days prior to the game. That contravenes the rule which now states no manager should speak about a referee in advance of the match being played.

As the United boss just served a five-match touchline ban following comments made about Martin Atkinson in the wake of his side's Premier League defeat to Chelsea at Stamford Bridge on March 1st, there is some concern at Old Trafford about a punishment.

However, in this instance, it does appear unlikely a suspension will be imposed.

Ferguson is planning to rest keeper Edwin van der Sar for Manchester United's Premier League trip to Blackburn. United will seal a record 19th title if they avoid defeat at Ewood Park but, after totting up 42 appearances already this term, Ferguson feels it is time the 40-year-old had a break.

"I may rest Edwin on Saturday," confirmed the United boss. "Given the programme of the last few weeks and the fact he has played in every game, it is important to take the opportunity to give him a break."

It means Tomasz Kuszczak or Anders Lindegaard will be given a rare appearance, with Ferguson otherwise intending to play his strongest team. However, Scotland midfielder Darren Fletcher is likely to be introduced from the bench at some stage as he continues his quest for fitness after a recent virus.

"We want to give him a chance," said Ferguson. "He is back training every day and is now over his virus. Darren played for the reserves on Wednesday, which has hopefully brought him on and we have Blackpool next week and Gary Neville's testimonial on the Tuesday before the final, so that gives us the opportunity to get him right."