Liverpool midfielder Javier Mascherano has admitted a Football Association charge of improper conduct and has requested a personal hearing.

The Liverpool midfielder was charged in relation to his behaviour during Sunday's Premier League clash with Manchester United.

Mascherano had already been booked for foul on Paul Scholes when he reacted wildly to referee Steve Bennett's decision to caution his Liverpool team-mate Fernando Torres, just before halftime

Bennett subsequently brandished a second yellow and gave Mascherano his marching orders, but the Argentine international lingered on the field and continued his tirade at the official.

Mascherano has already been issued a one-game suspension for the sending off, but could face a further three-game ban as a result of his dissent.

His behaviour followed similar scenes at Stamford Bridge just days before, where Chelsea's Ashley Cole turned his back on referee Mike Riley as the official issued a yellow card.

Mascherano's case will be heard on Thursday 3 April by an FA regulatory commission.

Will Tidey / Eurosport