Aston Villa launch Anwar El Ghazi appeal with Leeds striker Patrick Bamford facing possible retrospective action

Bamford could face retrospective action and a two-match suspension from the FA after appearing to feign injury in order to get El Ghazi dismissed in Sunday’s bizarre 1-1 draw at Elland Road.

The forward fell to the ground holding his face despite TV replays showing El Ghazi had not made any contact with his opponent.

The incident occurred during chaotic scenes involving players from both clubs after Mateusz Klich had controversially opened the scoring for the hosts.

Klich netted after Villa had stopped playing, expecting Leeds to put the ball out of play following an injury to Jonathan Kodjia.

Villa midfielder Conor Hourihane may also be in hot water, after TV footage appeared to show him striking out at Klich in the aftermath.

Hourihane was booked by referee Stuart Attwell, though it was not clear whether that particular incident had been spotted by the officials.

El Ghazi is facing a three-match ban which would rule him out of both legs of the forthcoming play-off semi-final. But Villa are confident of getting the decision overturned and have submitted video evidence as part of their case.

Bamford could be charged under rules brought in at the start of last season, designed to punish players who deliberately deceive the officials.

The rules allow the FA to take retrospective action where there is “clear and overwhelming evidence” an offence has been committed.

Such cases are referred to a three-person panel, who will review the available video evidence. Any player found guilty of the charge faces a two-match ban.

Both clubs, meanwhile, are likely to be charged for failing to control their players.

The game was stopped for around five minutes as the teams angrily clashed following Klich’s goal.

Marcelo Bielsa instructed his team to let Albert Adomah equalise for Villa, following the controversy over the opener.