Football Talk - Adebayor given three-match ban - 17/09/09
Manchester City striker Emmanuel Adebayor has been handed a three-match ban for his stamp on Arsenal forward Robin van Persie's head. The Togo international, who left the Gunners for City this summer, clashed with his former team-mate Van Persie in the second half at Eastlands.
The Football Association charged Adebayor with violent conduct after referee Mark Clattenburg admitted he had not seen the incident during the match. City and Adebayor 'reluctantly accepted' the FA charge, although the player maintains there was no malice in his challenge and has since apologised to the Holland international.
A statement on the FA's official website read: "A Regulatory Commission today considered the charge of violent conduct issued against Manchester City's Emmanuel Adebayor under the fast-track disciplinary procedure, following an incident with Robin van Persie during their fixture against Arsenal on the 12 September."Taking into consideration Mr Adebayor's acceptance of the charge of violent conduct the Regulatory Commission have ordered that he serve a three-match suspension from all football, commencing Thursday 17 September."
Adebayor could still face a further suspension after he was charged with improper conduct following his actions after netting in the 4-2 victory against the Gunners. The forward ran the entire length of the field to celebrate directly in front of the visiting fans, causing several supporters to surge forward towards the playing area. He issued an immediate apology following the match, claiming he had been caught up in the emotion of the moment.
The FA statement added: "A separate charge of improper conduct will be considered at a later date."
Adebayor's will now miss Sunday's Manchester derby against United, Wednesday's Carling Cup meeting with Fulham and the Premier League game against West Ham.
