FA suspend Bowyer for three more games

Lee Bowyer was today suspended for a further three games by the Football Association for his on-field bust-up with Newcastle team-mate Kieron Dyer.

Bowyer and Dyer were sent off for trading blows during the 3-0 home defeat by Aston Villa on April 2.

The midfielder, having already been red-carded this season, was already serving a four-match ban for his actions.

He will now be suspended for seven games in total but will be available for the game at Everton on May 7.

Bowyer was happy with his treatment by the FA commission, telling reporters outside the offices in Soho Square: ``I think I got a fair hearing.

“I just want to concentrate on getting back playing football. I just love playing football and that’s what I want to do.”

The midfielder’s long-term future is less certain, however.

Newcastle chairman Freddy Shepherd has admitted considering sacking Bowyer in the aftermath of the fight.

And,asked if he would be playing for the Magpies next season, Bowyer said: “Don’t ask me, ask the chairman.”

Bowyer’s original four-match ban is completed when he misses Sunday’s Premiership clash with Manchester United at Old Trafford.

The additional three-match suspension means he also misses the home clashes with Middlesbrough next Wednesday and Crystal Palace (April 30) and the trip to Fulham on May 4.

He will be available to return for Newcastle’s trip to Everton on May 7.

Professional Footballers' Association chief executive Mick McGuire was also pleased with the outcome.

He told Sky Sports News: “We were very concerned they might throw the book at Lee, and it wouldn’t have been fair.

“It’s good to see he will be playing before the end of the season, that was an important consideration for us.”

Bowyer was already looking forward to returning to help Newcastle finish the season strongly.

He added: “Hopefully we’ll still be playing for something and trying to get into Europe by then. I’ll give my all like every other game I play for Newcastle.”