Manchester City and Italy forward Mario Balotelli is facing a four-match ban after being charged with violent conduct by the Football Association. Balotelli stamped Tottenham midfielder Scott Parker on Sunday. Even though the match referee didn’t book the striker as he felt it was not done with intend.
An FA statement read: "The FA has today charged Manchester City forward Mario Balotelli with violent conduct following an incident in his side's home game against Tottenham Hotspur.
"Balotelli was involved in an incident with Tottenham's Scott Parker during Manchester City's 3-2 victory at the Etihad Stadium on Sunday 22 January 2012.
"Balotelli has until 6pm on Wednesday 25 January 2012 to respond to the charge."
The one relief for the Eastlands club is that defender Joleon Lescott will face no further action for elbowing Tottenham defender Younes Kaboul in the face in a separate incident at the Etihad Stadium.
If Mario accepts his charge, he will miss the Carling Cup semi-final second leg against Liverpool at Anfield.
However, if the Italy international decide to appeal he will be free to face the Reds, with a hearing taking place later this week.
Harry Redknapp said "I don't like people kicking other people in the head on a football pitch,"
"It is not something I understand. Why should he go and back-heel someone in the head when he is on the floor?"
