James Tarkowski will miss Burnley's clash with Tottenham this Saturday James Tarkowski will miss Burnley's clash with Tottenham this Saturday

Burnley defender James Tarkowski will serve a three-match ban after he was charged by the FA with violent conduct during Saturday's match against Brighton.

The 25-year-old was involved in an off-the-ball incident with striker Glenn Murray, swinging his arm into his chest, in their Premier League match at the AMEX Stadium ending 0-0.

Burnley accepted the charge, but argued the suspension was excessive. This however was rejected, meaning Tarkowski will be out for the games against Tottenham, Manchester United and Huddersfield.

Manager Sean Dyche also mentioned that Tarkowski injured his hand before the incident and has since had surgery. But the Burnley boss expects him to be fit to play after his ban.

James Tarkowski will be available to play in Liverpool's visit to Turf Moor on 1 January

"The reason we are a bit surprised is because you can clearly see Glenn Murray grab his hand," Dyche said. "That hand has got five pins in it and a metal plate.

"I would suggest an action causes a reaction. We put that to the panel, but they decided that it should not be reduced.

"As I said, he should not react like that," Dyche added. "But to get a three game ban for that is very disappointing."

The centre-back has started all 18 of Burnley's Premier League matches this season, helping them reach sixth in the table.

Tarkowski will be available for Liverpool's visit to Turf Moor on 1 January. But the Clarets defender will miss their clash with Tottenham on Saturday.

Speaking ahead of the match, Dyche said: "They are a very fine side, they are very capable technically and tactically, they have got a high energy level.

"They had a bit of a knock last week, but anyone can get a knock by Manchester City the form they are in.

"And generally, their form away has been a bit indifferent, but on any given day they are a top side so we know we are going to have to perform really well."