[COYG]

Barrow defender James Cotterill has been suspended 'from all football activity' while The Football Association conduct an inquiry into his actions in the FA Cup first round.

The former S****horpe United trainee has been charged with violent conduct after allegedly striking Bristol Rovers striker Sean Rigg in the face during an off-the-ball incident in last Saturday's cup tie at Holker Street.

Rigg suffered a fractured jaw as a result of the alleged assault from Cotterill, as The Pirates defeated their Conference North hosts 3-2 to reach the second round.

Television footage showed Cotterill allegedly punching Rigg in the face in the first half of the game, with referee Eddie Ilderton initially missing the incident.

After reviewing the footage, Barrow went ahead and suspended Cotterill earlier in the week, and The FA have promptly followed their lead by handing the defender a hefty suspension of their own.

"James Cotterill has been suspended from all football and football activity with immediate effect, pending the outcome of disciplinary proceedings," read an FA statement.

"The Interim Suspension Order has been ordered due to the serious nature of the alleged misconduct."

Cotterill will have until December 4 to respond to the violent conduct charge