Purse to be charged by F.A

Purse is alleged to have grabbed Canaries star Libbra in the groin area, before the Frenchman threw a punch at the Blues centre-half and both players ended up on the floor five minutes from the end of the game between the two sides at St. Andrews on December 8th.

Libbra has also been charged and the two of them now have 14 days in which to request a personal hearing.

Neither the referee, nor his linesmen, witnessed the incident, but it was brought to the FA's attention and the result of their investigation is that both players are in the dock charged with "violent, threatening, abusive, indecent or insulting behaviour." They face a fine and a suspension if found guilty.

Libbra has already asked for a personal hearing and Norwich chief executive Neil Doncaster will be accompanying the player to the FA hearing on a date to be fixed.

Purse will almost certainly ask to appear at the same hearing, with club representation.

Purse to be charged by F.A

Last updated : 26 January 2002 By Brian Cartlidge