FA hand Williamson three-match ban

Newcastle defender Mike Williamson has been handed a three-match ban for violent conduct during Saturday’s match against Bolton.

Williamson had denied the charge, which related to an incident involving Wanderers striker Johan Elmander in the 5-1 defeat at the Reebok Stadium.

A statement released by the FA read: “At an Independent Regulatory Commission hearing today, Newcastle United defender Mike Williamson was given a three-match suspension for violent conduct.”