UEFA charge Shearer with violent conduct

Newcastle United's Alan Shearer has been charged with violent conduct by UEFA after he appeared to elbow Inter Milan's Fabio Cannavaro in Wednesday's Champions League match, European soccer's governing body said on Thursday.

"Shearer has been charged with violent conduct," a spokesman told Reuters after UEFA decided to investigate the incident.

The striker could face a ban of two to three Champions League matches if he is found guilty.

"UEFA's control and disciplinary body have had a look at the video evidence and decided to open a case," said UEFA's spokesman.

"It will be dealt with tomorrow afternoon and a decision should be expected around 5 pm local time," he added.

Newcastle already had Wales striker Craig Bellamy dismissed in the Champions League second phase Group A match, which they lost 4-1, when the former England captain clashed with Italy defender Cannavaro in a goalmouth scuffle.

The referee at St James' Park, Frenchman Stephane Bre, did not see the incident and took no action.