Danny Drinkwater is expected to be charged with violent conduct by the Football Association, likely ruling the Leicester midfielder out of the next three Premier League games.
In a further setback to the champions’ domestic season Drinkwater is alleged to have elbowed Valon Behrami during the loss to Watford at Vicarage Road.
The FA have studied video footage of the incident, which occurred in the 67th minute, and are understood to be prepared to charge the England international.
Referee Neil Swarbrick missed the clash but images appearing on social media led the governing body to investigate.