Newcastle defender Mike Williamson will serve a three-match ban after his appeal against a violent conduct charge failed.
Williamson clashed with Bolton forward Johan Elmander during the Magpies’ 5-1 hammering at the Reebok Stadium last weekend.
The match referee did not see the incident take place and, therefore, the Football Association was able to use video evidence to bring the charge against the 27-year-old.
Williamson declined the opportunity to accept the charge, and a suspension, as part of the FA’s fast-track policy, but an independent panel have found the player guilty and he will now serve a ban.
An FA statement read: “At an Independent Regulatory Commission hearing today (Wednesday), Newcastle United defender Mike Williamson was given a three-match suspension for violent conduct.”