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Chelsea charged after bottle thrown following Villa loss

Chelsea's Enzo Fernandez and Robert Sanchez arguing with the match referee, along with Villa's Youri Tielemans and Morgan RogersGetty Images

Nizaar Kinsella

Football reporter

Chelsea have been charged by the Football Association after a bottle was thrown towardsAston Villa's bench at the end of their match in December.

The plastic water bottle was thrown in the aftermath of Villa's 2-1 comeback win at Stamford Bridge after two late Ollie Watkins goals sparked wild celebrations from the away team.

"It is alleged that the club failed to ensure its players and/or other relevant personnel positioned around the technical area after the final whistle did not behave in an improper and/or provocative and/or abusive way," an FA statement read.

At the time, it was unclear whether the bottle was thrown by someone from the stands or from inside the technical area, but it showered staff with a clear liquid that appeared to be water.

One member of Villa's backroom staff was seen pointing towards Chelsea's bench as they secured their joint-record 11th consecutive win in all competitions.

Chelsea have been investigating the incident but have yet to comment.

BBC Sport has contacted Chelsea for further comment following the charge.