Cristiano Ronaldo has been charged with “improper and/or violent” conduct after video emerged appearing to show him knocking a fan’s mobile phone to the ground.

The incident happened after Manchester United’s 1-0 defeat at Goodison Park on 9 April, for which the Portuguese international was cautioned by Merseyside Police.

Now the Football Association has decided to probe the incident.

A spokesperson said on Twitter: “Cristiano Ronaldo has been charged with a breach of FA Rule E3…

“It is alleged that the forward’s conduct after the final whistle was improper and/or violent.”

After the incident, which occurred when Ronaldo was making his way towards the tunnel, the 37-year-old issued a social-media apology for his “outburst” and invited the supporter to watch a game at Old Trafford “as a sign of fair play and sportsmanship”.

Taking to his Instagram account after the match, the Portuguese forward said: “It’s never easy to deal with emotions in difficult moments such as the one we are facing.

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“Nevertheless, we always have to be respectful, patient and set the example for all the youngsters who love the beautiful game.

“I would like to apologise for my outburst and, if possible, I would like to invite this supporter to watch a game at Old Trafford as a sign of fair-play and sportsmanship.”

Sarah Kelly claimed it was her 14-year-old son Jake – who has autism – who Ronaldo “assaulted”.

And she declined his offer, telling Sky News: “I’ve got nothing to say to [him].”

In response to the FA charge against Ronaldo, who has started just once under Erik Ten Hag in the Premier League this season, United said in a statement: “We will be supporting the player.”

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