Hleb cops misconduct charge April 22 2008
Alexander Hleb could miss the rest of Arsenal's season through suspension after he was charged with violent conduct by the Football Association.
The Belarus international was involved in an off-the-ball clash with Reading captain Graeme Murty during Saturday's Premier League match at the Emirates Stadium.
Hleb appeared to strike Murty with his open hand, but the incident - which left both the Royals skipper and his team's bench incensed - was missed by referee Peter Walton.
However, officials at Soho Square, as well as Walton himself, have now reviewed television footage and on Tuesday charged the Gunners player.
If proven, Hleb could be banned for three matches - a punishment he would have received on the day had it been seen and punished by a red card from the match official.
Such a sanction would effectively end the 26-year-old winger's campaign as it would rule him out of the games with Derby, Everton and finally Sunderland.
Hleb has until Wednesday evening to respond to the charge, with a regulatory commission set to hear the case on Thursday.
An FA statement read: "Arsenal midfielder Alexander Hleb has been charged with violent conduct.
"Hleb was involved in an incident with Reading defender Graeme Murty during the second half of the match at the Emirates Stadium on Saturday April 19.
"The incident was not seen by referee Peter Walton. Having now watched video footage of the incident, Walton has informed the FA that, had he seen it at the time, he would have shown Hleb a red card for violent conduct.
"Hleb has until 6pm on Wednesday April 23 to admit or deny the charge. A regulatory commission will hear the case on Thursday April 24."