Ivanovic appeals

Chelsea's Branislav Ivanovic has appealed against a charge of violent conduct following an incident in Saturday's win over Wigan at Stamford Bridge.

Ivanovic, 28, was caught on video appearing to strike Latics midfielder Shaun Maloney in the midriff moments before Juan Mata's controversial winner in the Blues' 2-1 Barclays Premier League victory.

Referee Mike Jones confirmed he and his assistants did not witness the incident, giving the Football Association the green light to investigate it retrospectively.

An FA Regulatory Commission will hear the case on Thursday based on video evidence and written submissions.

It is understood Ivanovic accepts that there was contact, but denies that it was violent.

The decision is a gamble for Chelsea and the defender as the punishment could be increased if the commission decide that the appeal had no grounds for success.