Manchester City FC

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Ball accepts FA charge

09 May 2007 - 08:34:00

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Manchester City defender Michael Ball has accepted an FA charge of violent conduct and a resulting three-match ban for his stamp on Cristiano Ronaldo in the derby defeat by Manchester United.

Ball was charged for stamping down on the United forward's chest in the early stages of City's 1-0 defeat and has offered no excuses for his actions.

He told the club's official website: "I deeply regret what I did and have accepted the FA's charge without hesitation. I have also sent a personal apology to Cristiano.

"My action should not be seen on a football pitch and I know we have a responsibility at Premier League level to set a good example to the whole football community.

"I am proud of my disciplinary record and have never been sent off in my professional career."

England international Ball joined the Citizens in the January transfer window and has scored once in 14 outings for Stuart Pearce's side.