adminCHELSEA striker Diego Costa has been charged by the Football Association for “an alleged act of violent conduct” during the Blues’ win over Arsenal on Saturday. The 26-year-old was involved in a spat with Gunners defender Gabriel, which saw the defender sent off for kicking out at the Spain international. Costa continued his physical approach and was perhaps fortunate to remain on the pitch following further clashes with Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain and Laurent Koscielny.
However, he now faces retrospective punishment for his altercation with Koscielny, which saw him strike the centre-back in the face, and has until 6PM on September 22 to reply.
Arsenal defender Gabriel — who was sent off for kicking out at Costa —has also been charged with improper conduct, while team-mate Santi Cazorla has been warned following his red card.
Both clubs have been charged for failing to control their players under FA rule E20 and, along with Gabriel, must respond to the charge by 6PM on Thursday, September 24.
Arsenal said they would appeal for both wrongful dismissal in relation to Gabriel and the length of his ban.
A statement read: “The club can confirm that it is appealing wrongful dismissal and the three-match ban given to Gabriel.”
Speaking after the defeat, Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger said Costa should have been sent off twice.
“Costa twice should be sent off,” Wenger told the BBC. “He hits him [Koscielny] in the face in purpose. In every game he has aggravation and he gets away with it because of the weakness of the referee.” — Goal/ESPN
Online Reporter