• Champions League

Gattuso summoned to UEFA hearing on Monday

ESPN staff
February 17, 2011
Gennaro Gattuso has a case to answer after he headbutted Joe Jordan at the end of AC Milan's loss to Tottenham © PA Photos
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AC Milan midfielder Gennaro Gattuso has been charged with gross unsporting conduct, UEFA has announced.

Gattuso, the AC Milan captain, clashed with Tottenham coach Joe Jordan during Spurs' 1-0 Champions League win at the San Siro, and is now set to be punished by UEFA - with a lengthy ban likely.

UEFA's control and disciplinary body will discuss the case against the 33-year-old Italian on February 21.

Former Rangers midfielder Gattuso, who was booked during the match and also clashed repeatedly with Tottenham striker Peter Crouch, headbutted Jordan before being led away.

Gattuso had already been cautioned in the game for a rash challenge on Steven Pienaar, after which the Italian repeatedly hit the turf in anger. That booking ensured that Gattuso will serve a one-game suspension, missing the second leg at White Hart Lane on March 9.

But that ban is almost certain to be extended when UEFA discusses the case. UEFA rules stipulate a minimum three-match ban for assault, although the governing body have the power to dole out lengthier suspensions in exceptional cases.

Gattuso's agent Claudio Pasqualin has since stated that Jordan had used provocative language towards the midfielder prior to their clash. However, Spurs have declined to make an official comment on his claims.

Gattuso later apologised for his actions, saying: "I lost control. There is no excuse for what I did. I take my responsibilities for that. I didn't want to argue with players and I did it with him, but I was wrong to do what I have done.''

© ESPN Sports Media Ltd.
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