Arsenal's woe over Reyes ban

Arsenal were bracing themselves for another setback today as they awaited the outcome of an FA inquiry into a charge of violent conduct against winger Jose Antonio Reyes.

The Spaniard faces the prospect of joining Dennis Bergkamp on the sidelines for the next three games as a result of the hearing.

Bergkamp has already lost his appeal for wrongful dismissal after being sent off in Arsenal's FA Cup tie against Sheffield United last weekend. His automatic ban will rule him out of this weekend's game against Southampton, as well as next week's replay in Sheffield and a home Premiership match against Portsmouth.

Reyes could be ruled out of the same three games. Under the Football Association's 'fast-track' rules, he could not attend today's hearing but Arsenal were able to submit written or video evidence.

The winger is said to have slapped opponent Andy Liddell amid the melee which led to Bergkamp's red card.