Charlie Austin: Southampton striker charged for making ‘abusive gesture’ during defeat by Manchester City

Austin has until 6pm on January 7 2019 to respond to the charge

Charlie Austin has been charged by the Football Association for making an "abusive and/or insulting" gesture as he was substituted during Southampton's defeat to Manchester City.

The incident concerns the striker's conduct as he made way for Shane Long in the 68th minute of the 3-1 loss to City at St Mary's on Sunday.

The FA said in a short statement on its website: “Southampton's Charlie Austin has been charged following the game against Manchester City on Sunday (30 December 2018).

“It is alleged that Mr Austin's gesture in or around the 68th minute of the fixture was abusive and/or insulting. He has until 6pm on January 7 2019 to respond.”

Southampton currently sit in the bottom three of the Premier League.

They battled to a goalless at draw Chelsea in the league on Wednesday night, with Austin coming on as a late substitute for Ralph Hasenhuttl’s struggling side.