Watford midfielder John Eustace will face an FA disciplinary charge for his alleged failure to leave the field in timely fashion after being sent off on Saturday.

The 28-year-old received his marching orders for a challenge on Stoke City's Richard Cresswell, and was automatically served with a three-game ban - a punishment Watford have decided not to appeal.

In his report of the game, however, referee Rob Styles cited Eustace for his reaction to the sending off and a charge of improper conduct has been brought by the FA.

If found guilty, the Watford skipper could see his ban extended to five games and miss a substantial chunk of his side's vital promotion push.

Aidy Boothroyd's men are currently third in the Championship, just three points behind joint leaders Stoke and Bristol City with a game in hand, and have eight games remaining.

Watford have until midday on Thursday to appeal the charge, or face being without Eustace until their home clash with Crystal Palace on April 19.

The former Middlesbrough, Coventry City, Dundee United and Hereford player arrived at Vicarage Road from Stoke in the January transfer window, for a fee of £250,000.

Will Tidey / Eurosport