Bournemouth's Harry Arter accepts apology from Moussa Sissoko for elbow

Bournemouth midfielder Harry Arter hopes Tottenham's Moussa Sissoko avoids a ban for elbowing him in the face on Saturday.

Sissoko struck Arter in the second half of the goalless draw at the Vitality Stadium but, after consulting his linesman, referee Craig Pawson decided against any further punishment.

The Frenchman could, however, still face a three-match suspension for violent conduct if the FA choose to take retrospective action.

Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player

Arter reacted angrily immediately after the incident as both sets of players clashed on the pitch but later the 26-year-old was more sympathetic.

"He caught me straight in the face and if you get hit in the face anyone would have a reaction," Arter said.

"After the game he apologised. I'm not one to hold grudges. He said sorry, he didn't mean (to do) it, so that's end of.

"It looks like he elbowed me but he apologised and said it was an accident so that's good to me.

"At times in the heat of the battle you react differently and now I feel happy with his apology and if he didn't mean it hopefully he doesn't get banned."

Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player

Arter also said Pawson told him he had not seen the incident which would pave the way for the FA to take retrospective action.

"I thought it was going to be a red card at the time," Arter added.

"The ref said he didn't see it so it's down to him if he does want to take any action. From my point of view I am happy with his apology."

You can watch Premier League football, plus England's tour of Bangladesh and lots more on Sky Sports. Upgrade now and enjoy six months at half price!