PHIL Bardsley has been charged with violent conduct by the Football Association, handing Sunderland manager Steve Bruce another unwanted headache.

The Scotland full-back has until 6pm today to answer the charge. A decision on whether or not to appeal is due to be made today.

If Bardsley contests the decision he risks what would most likely be a three-match ban being extended. The FA have the power to hand out further punishments for what they define as “frivolous appeals”, although it was something they shied away from last season.

Bardsley’s punishment relates to a 44th-minute stamp on winger Juan Mata in Saturday’s 2-1 defeat to Chelsea. That his studs were planted in the Spaniard’s back was pretty clear, how deliberate it was could be the basis for an appeal.

A suspension for one of his most reliable players would be a big blow to Bruce, who is currently without the injured John O’Shea.

The Black Cats are yet to win a match this season, and have won only once at the Stadium of Light since New Year’s Day. That this season’s setbacks have included a home defeat to Newcastle United and an exit from the League Cup has only made life uncomfortable for Bruce.

Throw in the shock departure of Asamoah Gyan on a season-long loan to Al-Ain after the European transfer window had closed, and it has been an awkward month for Bruce.