Saint-Etienne charged over Old Trafford flares

Nyon - European football's governing body UEFA said on Friday it has opened disciplinary proceedings against Saint-Etienne over crowd unrest in its Europa League clash at Manchester United.

The French Ligue 1 club's fans are accused of setting off fireworks, throwing objects and improper conduct during the last-32 first leg encounter at Old Trafford on Thursday.

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UEFA's control, ethics and disciplinary board will hear the case on March 23, a statement said.

Swedish star Zlatan Ibrahimovic scored a hat-trick as United ran out 3-0 winners, taking his tally for the season to 23 goals.

The second leg in Saint-Etienne will be on Wednesday.