Chelsea defender Branislav Ivanovic has been charged by the Football Association with violent conduct for his clash with Wigan Athletic midfielder Shaun Maloney.

The incident took place during the club's 2-1 win over Wigan on Saturday, when the 28-year-old appeared to strike Maloney in the stomach.

The Serbian international now faces a three-match ban, and could consequently miss Sunday's FA Cup semi-final against Tottenham Hotspur and upcoming Premier League games against Arsenal and Queens Park Rangers.

Ivanovic has until 6pm on Wednesday to respond to the charge.