Last Updated: Fri, 25 Jan 2013 18:00
Chelsea midfielder Eden Hazard is facing up to the prospect of an extended ban after being charged for kicking out at a ball boy.
The Belgian international was shown a red card following his run-in with the youngster Charlie Morgan during the Blues' Capital One Cup semi-final exit to Swansea in midweek, which earned him an automatic three-match suspension.
However, the Football Association could now increase his punishment after deciding to take further action against him, despite calls from both clubs to let the matter lie.
Hazard lost patience with Morgan, after he refused to hand over the ball after it had gone out for a goal kick at the Liberty Stadium, and when the youngster fell to the ground, the 22-year-old attempted to kick it from under him.
The Swansea ball boy reacted as if he had been caught in the ribs and although the 17-year-old insisted he had no intention of pressing charges, South Wales Police have been obliged to continue investigating after receiving three complaints. from the public.
An FA statement read: "The FA has charged Chelsea's Eden Hazard following his side's League Cup semi-final at Swansea on January 23, 2013.
"It is alleged that Hazard's behaviour in relation to a Swansea ball boy, for which the player was dismissed in the 78th minute, constituted violent conduct whereby the standard punishment that would otherwise apply was clearly insufficient.
"The player has until 6pm on Tuesday, January 29, 2013 to respond to the charge.
"The FA will remind all clubs of their responsibilities in ensuring ball boys and other personnel around the pitch act in an appropriate manner at all times and will liaise with competitions accordingly."
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