Norris charged for controversial celebration

Ipswich midfielder David Norris has been charged with improper conduct by the Football Association following his controversial goal celebration in the win over Blackpool earlier this month.

Norris, 27, has already been fined by his club and also issued a formal apology after making a gesture in support of former Plymouth team-mate Luke McCormick, who was jailed for causing death by dangerous driving while under the influence of alcohol.

Norris has admitted the charge and asked for a personal hearing, and an FA regulatory commission will hear the case tomorrow.

Norris has not been charged with making the gesture itself, and the FA - who wrote to the player directly for an explanation - have accepted his response it was not a handcuff sign.

However, the FA have expressed concern over players publicly making any message, especially when the circumstances are so sensitive, and stressed players need to be responsible when on the pitch and aware that gestures - private or otherwise - will always prompt queries to their meaning and how they are construed.

The fact Ipswich were swift to take their own disciplinary action and the player's own remorse will likely be taken into account by the regulatory commission.