Pochettino says club accepts the charge on Sissoko by FA

Moussa Sissoko has been charged with violent conduct by the Football Association after appearing to elbow Bournemouth midfielder Harry Arter.

He became embroiled in a tussle with Arter and appeared to lash out, catching the Irishman in the face as the pair contested a throw in in the 79th minute.

The French midfielder escaped punishment but referee Craig Pawson missed the incident, opening the door for the FA to take retrospective action.

And they announced on Monday that they have charged the player based on video evidence. Sissoko has until 6pm on Tuesday to reply but Spurs are not expected to contest the charge and will likely lose the player for three games.

Spurs boss Mauricio Pochettino said that the club accepts the charge, but will miss the midfielder in tomorrow’s clash with Arsenal.

Pochettino said: “The club, after viewing the video, we accept the charge and now we are moving forward. After the game it was difficult to appreciate the situation. And then when you see it on TV, there was no intention but it was in the face of Arter and it was clear. We accept the charge and move forward with the three games suspension.

“It is true it is a blow because we are in a period where we need all the squad fit to compete. It is difficult now because he was a player in our plans tomorrow and now we have to change a little bit. Some players need to rest a little bit. But we have a strong squad and we need to go tomorrow with mentality to win the game.”

Arter reacted furiously after the bust-up, leaping to his feet to confront Sissoko.

But the pair shook hands at full time and Arter hopes Sissoko is let off after apologising.

Bournemouth midfielder Arter said: “He caught me straight in the face and if you get hit in the face anyone would have a reaction.

“After the game he apologised and I have to let it lie. I’m not one to hold grudges. He said sorry, he didn’t mean it, so that’s end of. From my point of view I am happy with his apology.

“I felt dazed, I felt stars in my eyes for a couple of seconds. I thought it was going to be a red card at the time. The ref said he didn’t see it so it down to him if he does want to take any action.”