Arsenal Football Club News

• Nickname:Gunners
• Founded:1886
• Manager:Arsene Wenger

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Fabregas charged by FA

24 Apr 2009 - 14:17:01

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Arsenal captain Cesc Fabregas has been charged with two counts of improper conduct following the spitting storm which overshadowed last month's FA Cup clash with Hull City.

Fabregas was not part of the Gunners side which won a quarter-final encounter 2-1 at the Emirates Stadium on March 17.

However, his conduct after the final whistle when he entered the field of play and was alleged by the Hull management team to have spat in their direction, led to an investigation by the Football Association.

Tigers boss Phil Brown claimed the Spain midfielder spat at his number two, Brian Horton, and called on the FA to take action.

Brown has also been charged with improper conduct following comments he made after the game concerning referee Mike Riley.

"Fabregas faces two charges of improper conduct relating to his conduct on the pitch following the game," confirmed an FA statement.

"One charge concerns his behaviour in coming onto the pitch after the final whistle, the second charge relates to an alleged spitting incident. The charges are based on submissions from Hull City and video evidence.

"Brown is charged with improper conduct and/or bringing the game into disrepute in relation to media comments made after the game concerning referee Mike Riley.

"Fabregas and Brown have until May 12 to respond."

Meanwhile, a bemused Gunners boss Arsene Wenger has revealed his surprise that his skipper is facing any disciplinary action over the incident.

Fabregas could face a domestic ban if found guilty of the improper conduct charges.

"I personally looked at the reports, at the video evidence and there is nothing in there against Cesc," claimed Wenger. "I don't know if we will appeal. I will see what we can do about that.

"At the start, I am not a great fan of appealing because I said we are very open to co-operate and now I don't think we should stop that.

"I am very positive that there was enough evidence in what I have seen that the case should have been dropped."