New Delhi: Chelsea striker Didier Drogba has been hit with a violent conduct charge by the Football Association for throwing a coin during Wednesday's Carling Cup clash against Burnley.
Drogba reacted furiously to having a coin thrown in his direction while celebrating the opening goal during the first half of the match at Stamford Bridge.
The Ivorian made an offensive gesture and flung the coin back from whence it came before the Blues succumbed to a 5-4 penalty shoot-out defeat.
Match referee Keith Stroud booked the striker for celebrating his goal in front of the away fans, but the coin throwing incident was not included in the official's report.
Drogba issued an apology in the immediate aftermath of the game, but that act of contrition has not curried favour at Soho Square.
The FA have levelled a charge of violent conduct against the former Marseille forward, and Drogba has until 1800 on Monday to lodge an appeal.
A commission will hear the case on Tuesday morning.
The FA have also requested compliance from Chelsea FC, Burnley FC and the Metropolitan Police, who are also conducting an investigation.
Despite the charge, an FA spokesperson also poured scorn on the actions of the Burnley supporter for their part in the controversy. The culprit of the original coin toss may face a lifetime stadium ban should he or she be found.
He said: "Players should be able to play football without fearing for their personal safety. It is totally unacceptable for players to be put in danger by supporters throwing missiles onto the pitch."
"The priority now is to work with the clubs and the police to identify the individuals involved. The FA wants anyone found guilty of throwing missiles to face the strongest possible action. That includes life bans from attending football matches."
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