After watching Tottenham Hotspur cut the gap at the top of the Premier League to five points, Leicester City's title charge has taken another blow after losing top-scorer, Jamie Vardy.
Having been charged by the FA with improper conduct for his reaction to his dismissal in the Foxes' 2-2 draw with West Ham United on Sunday afternoon, it has been revealed that the former Fleetwood Town man has accepted this decision and has elected not to appeal. As a result, the 22-goal man now looks to be suspended for a minimum of two matches.
No arguments
Despite already picking up a one-game ban for his sending off against the Hammers last weekend, Vardy, 29, has not managed to avoid a further period of absence thanks to the FA charge. Nonetheless, the speedy forward has decided not to appeal against this ban but has however requested a personal hearing that could take place soon.
The incident in question relates to Vardy's reaction to being dismissed for two bookable offences at the weekend. Having already seen one yellow card for a lunging tackle on Cheikhou Kouyate in the first period of the match, the England international picked up another caution for simulation mid-way through the second half.
However, this further charge relates him reportedly displaying an inappropriate reaction to the afternoon's referee, Jon Moss, after being given his marching orders. The allegations refer specifically to possible abusive language being used towards Moss and failing to depart the pitch. Hence, the FA have charged Vardy and could possibly punish him with a further one-match ban.
Key man
This news will obviously come as quite as shock to Foxes' fans as their top scorer will now be missing for some key games in the race for the Premier League title. The ex-Non League forward has become a crucial cog in Leicester's team this season and having managed to net an outstanding 22 times in 34 league games, his influence cannot be underestimated.
Claudio Ranieri's team though will have to do without their star man for the next few games after he accepted the FA charge. As a result, Vardy will be missing for Leicester City's key matches against Swansea City at the King Power Stadium and their trip to Old Trafford to face-up against Louis Van Gaal's Manchester United.
Elsewhere, the Foxes as a club have also accepted a further charge from the FA. With the East-Midlanders being accused of 'failing to control their players' after the referee awarded opponents, West Ham, a penalty, a substantial fine could be on the way to the club following this acceptance.