Manchester United [ Images ] defender Rio Ferdinand [ Images ] has been charged with violent conduct following an incident during Saturday's Premier League game against Hull City, the Football Association (FA) said on its website on Tuesday.

The England [ Images ] international was involved in a clash with Hull striker Craig Fagan during the second half of United's 4-0 win.

It was Ferdinand's first match back after a long-term injury which had kept him out of the side since October.

Ferdinand can either plead guilty and accept a three-match suspension or challenge the decision with the risk of a stiffer punishment.

He could miss Premier League matches against Arsenal [ Images ], Portsmouth and Aston Villa [ Images ].