Adebayor ban leads to Manchester City striker crisis
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Manchester City face a striker crisis for Sunday's derby after the Football Association today confirmed an immediate three-match ban for Emmanuel Adebayor.
The Togo international admitted a charge of violent conduct brought after the stamped on his former Arsenal team-mate Robin van Persie's head.
Adebayor is now ruled out of City's match at Old Trafford and he will also miss home games in the Carling Cup game with Fulham and West Ham in the Premier League.
The suspension leaves manager Mark Hughes likely to be without four strikers against Manchester United - Roque Santa Cruz, Robinho and Carlos Tevez are all struggling with injuries.
It leaves Hughes looking as though he will have to rely on Craig Bellamy and Benjani Mwaruwari up front.
Adebayor could face an even lengthier ban is he is found guilty of a separate charge of improper conduct, brought after the former Arsenal player ran the length of the pitch to taunt Gunners fans with a goal celebration.
The FA said in a statement: "A regulatory commission today considered the charge of violent conduct issued against Manchester City's Emmanuel Adebayor under the fast-track disciplinary procedure following an incident with Robin van Persie during their fixture against Arsenal on the 12th September.
"Taking into consideration Mr Adebayor's acceptance of the charge of violent conduct the regulatory commission have ordered that he serve a three-match suspension from all football, commencing Thursday 17th September.
"A separate charge of improper conduct will be considered at a later date."
City may contest the improper conduct charge - they have until September 30 to respond to that allegation.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments