Thursday 10 January 2019 20:44, UK
Southampton striker Charlie Austin has been given a two-match ban by the Football Association for an obscene gesture during the match against Manchester City on December 30.
Austin has admitted making the gesture - which appeared to be aimed at the City fans - as he was substituted during a 3-1 defeat at St Mary's.
An FA statement read: "Southampton's Charlie Austin has been suspended for two matches with immediate effect following an independent regulatory commission hearing.
"The striker admitted his gesture in or around the 68th minute of the game against Manchester City on 30 December 2018 was abusive and/or insulting."
The forward will have to miss Saturday's Premier League game at Leicester and an FA Cup third-round replay against Derby next week.
Austin's absence will be a blow to the Saints, who will be desperate for three points at the weekend as they continue their fight against relegation.
His absence adds to manager Ralph Hasenhuttl's problems in attack, with Danny Ings and Michael Obafemi both set to miss the match against Leicester due to hamstring injuries.
