Leicester boss Claudio Ranieri facing FA charge after losing cool with referee Craig Pawson during Stoke draw

Ranieri had to be dragged away from the official at half-time after Jamie Vardy had been sent off while the Foxes, who picked up six bookings, could also be punished

Claudio Ranieri is facing an FA charge along with Leicester City for the club’s incredible first-half meltdown at Stoke.

Ranieri had to be dragged away from referee Craig Pawson at half-time after England striker Jamie Vardy had been sent off – although the Italian claimed he kept his mouth zipped.

The Foxes could also be punished for failing to control their players after six yellow cards and one red during their 2-2 draw.

Ranieri had to be pulled back by keeper Kasper Schmeichel as he confronted Pawson, but insisted: “I said nothing.

“I just wanted to show to our fans I was there. I went to our fans and I said support us on the pitch.

“I was angry (at the referee) because I saw my players fight and there were so many yellow cards, but it was a normal battle in the Premier League.

“It could be a turning point today, but we have to wait and see the next matches.”

There were also claims stewards had ducked away from coins thrown at Pawson by fans, but Ranieri said: “I didn’t see any coins. I think it was normal.”

Vardy was dismissed in the 28th minute for a two-footed lunge at Stoke’s Mame Diouf – a decision Ranieri said his club may appeal.

“I don’t know. I will speak with club and see. If it possible, yes. He wanted to challenge and get the ball.”

But Stoke boss Mark Hughes felt Pawson’s decision was correct and added: “People are saying he was pushed, but it looked to me like two straight legs, and he was out of control and off the ground.

“There have a couple like that recently that have caused debate. This this one, I thought the ref got it right.”