Wilkinson gets 3-match ban for elbowing Balotelli

Mario Balotelli screams as he is fouled by Andy Wilkinson.

Kieran McManus/Icon SMI

LONDON (AP) -- Stoke defender Andy Wilkinson will serve a three-match ban after admitting a charge of violent conduct for elbowing Manchester City striker Mario Balotelli in the face during a Premier League match.

The incident took place during Saturday's 1-1 draw at the Britannia Stadium but was missed by the referee. The Football Association took retrospective action after the elbowing was caught on video.

Wilkinson will now miss Stoke's match at Premier League leader Chelsea on Saturday, as well as games against Swansea and Liverpool.

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