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FA charge Drogba with violent conduct

14/11/2008

The Football Association has charged Chelsea's Didier Drogba with violent conduct over Wednesday's coin-throwing incident against Burnley.

In celebrating the Blues' opening goal in their Carling Cup match at Stamford Bridge, Drogba went across in front of the visiting supporters' area.

Television pictures showed some objects being thrown from the crowd onto the pitch near to where the Ivorian striker stood and Drogba is alleged to have thrown one of those missiles into the crowd.

In a statement, the FA confirmed it has charged Drogba with violent conduct, for which he could face a warning, a fine and/or a ban.

The probe into the incident, which is also being investigated by the Metropolitan police, is ongoing and could see Burnley and Chelsea handed further charges for failing to control the supporters involved.

And the FA has written to both clubs to "request information" on the events, threatening life bans for the perpetrators in the stands.

A spokesman for the governing body added: "Players should be able to play football without fearing for their personal safety.

"It is totally unacceptable for players to be put in danger by supporters throwing missiles onto the pitch.

"The priority now is to work with the clubs and the police to identify the individuals involved.

"The FA wants anyone found guilty of throwing missiles to face the strongest possible action. That includes life bans from attending football matches."

It was initially unclear whether the governing body would have jurisdiction in the case as referee Keith Stroud booked the Chelsea player after his goal celebration.

However, in his report the official confirmed he had booked Drogba for "going towards the opposition supporters to celebrate".

Mr Stroud "had not seen the missile incident", the FA statement added.

According to FA rules if a player is punished for an offence by the on-pitch official he cannot then be punished retrospectively, other than in exceptional cases.

Drogba has until 18:00 GMT today to respond to the charge, with a hearing expected to take place on Monday.