Chelsea have written to the Football Association in an attempt to avoid an extended ban for Eden Hazard after the midfielder kicked out at a ball boy.
The Belgian is currently serving a three-match suspension for the incident which took place during Chelsea's defeat to Swansea City in the Capital One Cup semi-finals last week.
The FA's decision to charge the Belgian means that he could yet be hit with further punishment.
Chelsea, who have the right to appeal or accept the FA's findings, will discover this week if their challenge is successful.