The Football Association has charged Southampton striker Charlie Austin with violent conduct after an incident in the 1-1 draw with Huddersfield Town.
Austin had already given the Saints the advantage at St Mary's before Terriers goalkeeper Jonas Lossl was left with a cut on his nose after contact with the forward.
Head coach Mauricio Pellegrino defended his player over the incident, but Huddersfield counterpart David Wagner claimed that the 28-year-old should have been given a red card.
However, the FA has decided that Austin's kick was deliberate, resulting in a charge of violent conduct which could lead to a three-match suspension.
Southampton and Austin have the option to appeal, but the frontman also sustained a hamstring injury during Saturday's fixture and is likely to be absent until 2018.
Should a three-game ban be enforced, Austin will miss fixtures with Tottenham Hotspur, Manchester United and Crystal Palace.
