Chelsea agent provocateur Diego Costa has been handed a three-match ban by the FA for violent conduct during last weekend’s now infamous clash with Arsenal at Stamford Bridge.
The Spanish international had denied the charge, which came after video evidence showed the striker walloping Arsenal’s Laurent Koscielny in the face during Chelsea’s controversial 1-0 win. However, after viewing the evidence again, the FA panel decided to give Costa a three-match ban, which will cover his side’s upcoming games against Walsall (in the Capital One Cup), Newcastle and Southampton (both in the Premier League). Here’s the link to the FA statement.
On receiving the verdict, Pravda/Chelsea.com posted the following statement…
As for Arsenal defender Gabriel, who was sent off for a petulant kick at Costa, his three-game ban has been rescinded by the FA after the Gunners appealed for wrongful dismissal, although he still faces a charge of failing to leave the pitch immediately after seeing red. The two clubs also still face charges of failing to control their players and have until Thursday evening to appeal.
One wonders if Costa’s ban, while probably not affecting the Blues’ chances in the three (comparatively easy) games he’ll miss, will still decrease referees’ leniency with his antics for the rest of the season. As for Arsenal, despite the all-round good outcome, one imagines their fans will still find something to moan about.