Preston North End boss facing potential Blackburn Rovers ban after FA charge
Paul Heckingbottom could be banned from the touchline for Preston North End's trip to Blackburn Rovers on Friday night.
The Lilywhites boss was charged by The FA on Monday after he was sent off in their 2-1 win at Watford. Heckingbottom was dismissed during half-time for comments made to the officials.
The statement said: "The manager allegedly acted in an improper manner and/or used threatening and/or abusive and/or insulting words and/or behaviour towards the match official/s around the tunnel area at half time, which led to his dismissal.
"It's further alleged that he acted in an improper manner following his dismissal by entering the technical area prior to the start of the second half."
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The Preston boss has until Wednesday, January 29, to respond to the charge. If he appeals, it's likely any potential sanction could be delayed until after their trip to Ewood Park.
However, if Heckingbottom doesn't contest the charge, he could face a one-match touchline ban, starting immediately.
John Eustace was charged by The FA last week for comments he made after Blackburn Rovers' draw at Leeds United. He suggested his side would not have been awarded a penalty for the incident that gave the Whites a spot-kick, thus questioning the integrity of the officials.
However, the Rovers boss is expected to get a fine and a warning for those post-match comments, rather than any ban.
