Cisse Faces Seven-Match Ban After Accepting Spitting Charge

Newcastle United striker Papiss Cisse awaits the decision of the Football Association (FA) after accepting a charge of spitting at Manchester United defender Jonny Evans.

The Senegalese striker could get a seven-match ban for his part in the spitting row during his side’s 0-1 defeat by United at St. James’ Park.

The 29-year-old had earlier in a statement apologised for his action.

A three-man independent disciplinary committee is already looking into video footage of the incident, which according to the FA charge saw “the two players spat at each other.”

Papiss Cisse Appears to Spit at Jonny Evans During a Premier League Match at St. James Park. Image: Getty.
Papiss Cisse Appears to Spit at Jonny Evans During a Premier League Match at St. James Park. Image: Getty.

Cisse could be handed a ban of up to six games as punishment for the offence after admitting his part in the incident. He would have to miss an extra match, having already been sanctioned this season.

Following Cisse’s acceptance, Newcastle managing director Lee Charney is quoted by the BBC as saying: “Both ourselves and Papiss agree that this kind of behaviour is not acceptable. When you do something wrong you have to front up, admit your mistake and accept the punishment.

“Papiss was proactive this morning in making full and heartfelt apology, which he did in advance of any notification from the FA regarding this charge.

“This was something he felt strongly about and we fully support him quickly accepting the charge.”

Evans, 27, has yet to respond to the FA charge. The Northern Ireland international denied spitting at Cisse.

He has until 6pm on Friday to respond to the spitting charge. If found palpable he could as well receive a six-game ban, including the FA Cup quarter-final clash with Arsenal on Monday.