Premier League: Crystal Palace boss Neil Warnock considers appeal

Crystal Palace manager Neil Warnock has not yet decided if he will contest a Football Association charge of misconduct.

Warnock was critical of referee Craig Pawson in his post-match press conference following the 2-1 defeat to Premier League leaders Chelsea at Selhurst Park on Saturday.

The Palace boss was frustrated that John Terry was not booked for a late tackle before Eagles defender Damien Delaney did earn a caution for a similar offence.

Cesar Azpilicueta incurred a straight red card for a reckless lunge on Mile Jedinak, but Palace's numerical advantage was wiped out when Delaney picked up a second yellow card for a tug on Loic Remy.

Warnock claimed the performance of Pawson "left a lot to be desired", while he also claimed Delaney's second booking was influenced by Chelsea players surrounding the match official.

The FA said in a statement: "It is alleged that Warnock's post-match comments constituted improper conduct in that they implied the match referee was motivated by bias; and/or brought the game into disrepute, in contravention of FA Rule E3[1]."

But Warnock will wait for the FA to explain the reasons behind the charge before deciding whether to lodge an appeal, claiming he never questioned the integrity of the referee.

I questioned his experience really or the influence of certain things in the game but not his integrity

"As long as you don't question their integrity - and I don't think I did that, I questioned his experience really or the influence of certain things in the game but not his integrity," Warnock said.

"We will have to wait and see. I would imagine from what I have been told I will have a letter."

Warnock also questioned the experience of Pawson, who has refereed 17 Premier League matches since taking charge of his first in March last year, and insisted the Chelsea clash should be been handed to a more established official.

"I have been absolutely delighted (by the standard of refereeing this season). The referees we have had this season have done really well, it's surprised me," Warnock added.

"One or two of the younger ones who have been criticised in the past have done well. Even on Saturday, I think Craig Pawson will be a very good referee in the future.

"What surprised me a little bit is that a south London derby like that, when we get a young, quite inexperienced Premier League referee, even though he's a good one.

"People like Mark Clattenburg have not got a game. It bewilders me if I am honest."

Warnock has until 6pm on October 27 to respond to the charge.