Arsenal's Song accepts three-match ban for violent conduct
Last updated on .From the section Football
Arsenal's Alex Song has accepted a charge of violent conduct and will now serve a three-match suspension, the Football Association has confirmed.
The midfielder was caught on camera treading on Joey Barton's ankle during Saturday's match against Newcastle.
Team-mate Gervinho also has a three-match ban for slapping Barton, and both will miss games against Liverpool, Manchester United and Swansea.
Both clubs were also charged with failing to control their players.
They have until Thursday to respond.
After the clash with Cameroon midfielder Song, Barton was later at the centre of an incident which led to the dismissal of new Arsenal striker Gervinho, who has also been banned for violent conduct.
The Football Association's charge of failing to control their players relates to an ugly melee after Barton reacted angrily to what he felt was diving, which culminated with Gervinho's dismissal late on in the 0-0 draw at St James' Park.
