Joey Barton criticised referee Brett Huxtable in his post-match interviews

Joey Barton has been charged by the FA following post-match comments he made about the referee after Fleetwood’s defeat against Bristol Rovers last month.

The Fleetwood manager criticised referee Brett Huxtable in his post-match interviews after the 2-1 defeat on December 22, saying he hoped the official never took charge of one of his team's games again.

Barton was handed a two-game touchline ban and fined £2,000 after being charged with misconduct earlier this month for also being sent off when a late melee occurred in the same Sky Bet League One match.

A FA statement read: "Joseph Barton has been charged following post-match comments he made about the appointed match referee for Fleetwood Town's game against Bristol Rovers on 22 December 2018.

"He has until 18:00 on 10 January 2019 to respond to the charge."

2:08 Highlights of the League One match between Bristol Rovers and Fleetwood Highlights of the League One match between Bristol Rovers and Fleetwood

Bristol Rovers scored an injury-time winner against Fleetwood, who had eight players booked and striker Ched Evans sent off.

"At times it definitely felt like we were against a lot more than 11," Barton said afterwards.

"I have to be careful not to say anything because we all know the ramifications of telling people exactly what you think of officials.

"Hopefully we never see those guys again because good football matches officiated in the correct spirit are great to be part of."