Chelsea News: Costa Charged by FA for Violent Conduct

The FA have announced that Chelsea striker Diego Costa has been charged with violent conduct for an alleged stamp on Emre Can during the Blues' victory over Liverpool in the Capital One Cup at Stamford Bridge.

The former Atletico Madrid striker, who has had problems with his temper in the past, was accused by Liverpool of deliberately stamping on Can and Martin Skrtel during the two sides' second leg semi-final League Cup clash on Tuesday.

Although Chelsea boss Jose Mourinho insisted both the stamps were "absolutely accidental", the FA had recently stated that they had begun investigations into the matter and were waiting for referee Michael Oliver's report before taking further action.

And now the English football governing body have confirmed that the Brazil born striker has been charged with violent conduct for his stamp on Can.

"Diego Costa has been charged by The FA for violent conduct following an on-field incident which was not seen by the match officials but caught on video," read a statement on the Football Association's official website.

"The charge is in relation to an incident involving the Chelsea forward and Liverpool's Emre Can which occurred in the 12th minute of the League Cup semi-final second leg at Stamford Bridge last night."

However, the FA have confirmed that no "further action" will be taken against Costa for his second alleged stamp on Skrtel.

"Following a review of an incident during the game involving Costa and Liverpool's Martin Skrtel, The FA will not be taking any further action."

The FA have given Costa "until 6pm on Thursday to respond to the charge".

This is certainly a big blow for Chelsea as the Brazil born striker faces the prospect of a minimum three-game ban, meaning he would be missing the Blues' crucial Premier League clash against defending English champions Manchester City on Saturday.

Although the Blues have the likes of Didier Drogba and Loic Remy amongst their ranks, the Blues will be definitely be missing Costa during their potential title decider against City, with Eden Hazard admitting on Tuesday that the striker is a key player for them as he "gives his life" for the team.