FRENCHMAN Eric Cantona was formally charged last night with misconduct which brought the game into disrepute following his attack on a fan during an English Premier League match on Wednesday night.
The Manchester United forward, who made a flying two-footed leap into the fan's chest, has 14 days in which to appeal against the English Football Association charge.
FA chief executive Graham Kelly said: 'We have spent the last 18 hours with the police and officials of Manchester United and Crystal Palace and everyone concerned is treating this case with extreme seriousness.
'If any offence is proved the player is bound to face a severe punishment.
'It is not within our powers to suspend the player without a proper hearing, but we are confident that Manchester United will respond in the proper manner.' Cantona could also face criminal charges following the incident.
Police have taken statements from 40 fans and are carrying out their own separate investigation.