ESPNsoccernet: England

Chelsea striker Didier Drogba has admitted an Football Association charge of violent conduct following last week's Carling Cup defeat by Burnley, when he was pictured throwing an object at away fans.

The 30-year-old faces a three-match ban for hurling the missile, thought to be a coin, towards the stands during his celebrations of his opening goal.

An FA regulatory commission will hear the case on Tuesday and make their final decision based on video evidence and written submissions.

Drogba is now expected to spend more time on the sidelines after a injury-riddled season.

The Ivory Coast international has struggled with a knee injury, limiting him to five Premier League appearances this season, with Nicolas Anelka making hay in his absence.

A statement from Chelsea read: "Didier Drogba has responded to the FA's charge of violent conduct and will not contest it."

The former Marseille striker issued an apology for the incident immediately after the Burnley defeat.