Toure charged with violent conduct

Arsenal defender Kolo Toure was today charged by the Football Association for allegedly elbowing Alan Shearer during the 1-0 victory over Newcastle on Sunday.

After reviewing video evidence of the game, the FA's compliance unit decided there were grounds to charge the Gunners defender with violent conduct.

If found guilty the Ivory Coast international could be given a three-match ban. That would be a major blow to Arsenal as they try to haul themselves back into the Premiership title race.

If Toure denies the charge, he would not be able to attend the disciplinary hearing under the FA's new 'fast track' rules, although he would be able to supply written or video evidence to be used in his defence.

Meanwhile, Jermaine Pennant's loan move from Arsenal to Birmingham has been put on hold. The former England Under-21 winger looked to have sealed a switch to St Andrew's last night.

But Pennant, who has been charged by police with drink-driving after crashing a Mercedes Benz into a lamp post, must now wait before completing his move.

A statement from Birmingham today said: "While Birmingham City want to loan Pennant and both Arsenal and the player wish this to happen, Pennant's present circumstances are such that a loan agreement cannot be signed at the present time. Birmingham City hope that matters can be concluded satisfactorily before the transfer window closes."