SAINTS skipper Jack Stephens has been charged with misconduct following his straight red card against Manchester United.

Stephens was given his marching orders by referee Stuart Attwell following a high-boot tackle on United's Alejandro Garnacho.

A statement from the FA said: "It's alleged that the defender used abusive and/or insulting words towards both the match referee and fourth official around the 79th minute after he had been sent off."

Stephens has until Thursday, September 19 to provide a response to the allegation, while Saints will not be commenting on the situation.

Saints manager Russell Martin initially felt Stephens did not make contact with the Argentinian winger before changing his mind after seeing a replay.

Only Franny Benali (5) has been sent off more times than Stephens (3) for Southampton in the Premier League.