Three-match ban for Song

Arsenal midfielder Alex Song has accepted a Football Association charge of violent conduct and will now serve a three-match suspension.

The charge relates to an incident during the Gunners’ draw at Newcastle on Saturday, when the 23-year-old appeared to stamp on the leg of opponent Joey Barton.

Song’s team-mate, new signing Gervinho, is also about to start a three-game ban for slapping Barton, and the pair will miss vital games against Liverpool, Manchester United and Swansea.

Both clubs were also charged with failing to control their players and have until tomorrow to respond.