Romelu Lukaku unlikely to get ban for Gaetan Bong incident, says Dermot Gallagher

Romelu Lukaku appeared to kick out at Brighton's Gaetan Bong.

Former Premier League referee Dermot Gallagher “would be surprised” if Romelu Lukaku is handed a three-game ban after appearing to kick out at Brighton's Gaetan Bong.

Video footage appears to show Lukaku swinging his legs towards the Brighton defender after the pair tangled in the penalty area during the second half.

United stuttered to a 1-0 win over Brighton as Ashley Young's deflected shot looped into the top corner over Mathew Ryan.

2:56 Watch Man Utd 1-0 Brighton highlights Watch Man Utd 1-0 Brighton highlights

The referee for Saturday's game at Old Trafford, Neil Swarbrick, is due to submit his match report on Monday.

If there is no mention of the incident in Swarbrick's report, the FA can still independently look at the footage and make a retrospective decision.

However, Gallagher told Sky Sports News: "The act has to be one of violence or brutality. It's not really either for me. This appears to me to be one of petulance."

Jose Mourinho has praised Lukaku's 'fantastic' attitude and work rate

Were Lukaku found guilty of violent conduct, the Belgian striker would miss United's next three Premier League matches - away matches at Watford and Arsenal followed by the Manchester derby on December 10, live on Sky Sports.