Wilkinson charged for Balotelli clash

Stoke City defender Andy Wilkinson has been charged with violent conduct by the FA after elbowing Manchester City striker Mario Balotelli.

The incident happened during the 1-1 Premier League draw between the two sides at the Britannia Stadium on Saturday.

Referee Mark Clattenburg and his team of officials failed to spot the incident, prompting the FA to retrospectively charge Wilkinson.

Balotelli fell to the ground following the clash and required medical attention, while his team-mate Gael Clichy attempted to alert Clattenburg to what had happened.

Wilkinson, 28, has made 135 appearances for Stoke and has previously played for Shrewsbury Town and Blackpool on loan.