Burnley defender James Tarkowski charged with violent conduct

The Football Association has charged Burnley defender James Tarkowski with violent conduct following an incident involving Brighton & Hove Albion forward Glenn Murray.

During the second half of the goalless draw at the Amex Stadium, Tarkowski appeared to elbow Murray in the ribs as the pair jostled for position in the penalty area.

The coming-together was missed by the referee but after the replays were assessed by a three-man panel, each of the trio decided that the centre-back was deserving of a retrospective charge.

In his post-match interview, Tarkowski played down the incident, but Seagulls boss Chris Hughton felt that his team should have been awarded a spot kick.

Burnley and Tarkowski must now decide whether to appeal the punishment or accept a three-game ban, which would include matches with Tottenham Hotspur, Manchester United and Huddersfield Town.

The 25-year-old has started in each of Burnley's 18 top-flight fixtures this season.