CHESTER CITY chairman Stephen Vaughan last night declared that he will defend himself ‘vigorously’ against an FA charge following the controversial match against Shrewsbury Town at Gay Meadow last month.

The Football Association last night officially issued the charge against the City chairman alleging that an incident occurred in the tunnel leading to the dressing rooms, following the highly-charged derby match. It is alleged that the incident involved Vaughan and a Shrewsbury Town player.

"I am surprised by some of the rhetoric utilised in the correspondence we have received. So rather than debate the issues in the public arena, I will vigorously defend myself at any subsequent inquiry," Vaughan said.

Meanwhile, it’s back to FA Cup action for Chester City this evening when they entertain Bury in a second round replay at the Deva Stadium.

A third round home tie against Championship side Ipswich Town awaits the winners of the game and City manager Mark Wright is relishing the challenge.

CHESTER CITY (from): Danby, Palethorpe, Marples, Artell, Bolland, Linwood, Hessey, Westwood, Allen, Sandwith, S Vaughan, Hand, Martinez, Rutherford, Bennett, Wilson, Blundell, Walters, Steele.