FA charges Hazard

25 January 2013 17:45

The English FA has charged Chelsea forward Eden Hazard, after the Belgian was red-carded for kicking out at a Swansea ballboy.

Charlie Morgan, 17, attempted to prevent Hazard from taking back the ball as the Blues desperately pushed for late goals in Wednesday's Capital One Cup semi-final second leg at Liberty Stadium - a tie they ultimately lost.

The 22-year-old was then dismissed for violent conduct after he kicked at the ball, which the ballboy had dived on to create a delay in play.

A statement on the FA's official website explained: "It is alleged that Hazard's behaviour (...) constituted violent conduct whereby the standard punishment that would otherwise apply was clearly insufficient."

The former Lille star has until 6pm (GMT) on Tuesday to respond to the charge.

While charging Hazard, the FA statement indicated the actions of ballboy Morgan - son of Swansea director Martin Morgan - would also be further investigated.

"The FA will remind all clubs of their responsibilities in ensuring ballboys and other personnel around the pitch act in an appropriate manner at all times and will liaise with competitions accordingly," the statement continued.

South Wales police confirmed later on Friday that no criminal charges would be laid against Hazard.