Mark Hughes: Stoke City manager charged by FA Stoke City manager Mark Hughes has been charged with improper conduct by the Football Association following his touchline dismissal at Newcastle. Hughes was sent to the stands during his side's 5-1 Premier League defeat at St James' Park on Boxing Day. "It is alleged that his behaviour in or around the 40th minute of the fixture amounted to improper conduct," said an FA statement. Hughes has until 2 January 2014 to respond to the charge. Stoke's manager was also highly critical of referee Martin Atkinson following the game. "There were a lot of decisions that left a lot to be desired, to be honest," said Hughes. If he accepts the charge or is found guilty, Hughes faces a financial penalty in a standard case and no touchline ban. He was ordered from the dug-out after he reacted in fury to the first-half dismissal of midfielder Glenn Whelan. Hughes was still making his way to a seat in the stand when defender Marc Wilson was also sent off.