Hartlepool's Carl Magnay denies spitting at spectator despite six-match ban

Hartlepool defender Carl Magnay has strongly denied spitting at a spectator amid his club's decision not to appeal against his six-match ban.

Magnay denied a charge of misconduct at a recent disciplinary hearing but the FA found him guilty of the offence - alleged to have happened after he was sent off during Pools' defeat at Wycombe last month - and also fined him £750.

Hartlepool expressed their "extreme disappointment" at the decision, while deciding not to appeal, but Magnay has since released a statement via the League Two club to insist his innocence.

"I categorically deny spitting on anyone and find the allegation made against me inaccurate," the former Chelsea trainee said in a statement released on Monday. "This is something I find abhorrent and simply would not do.

"There is no reaction by those in the vicinity where I spit, something which is supported by the video evidence.

"I would like to thank everyone connected with Hartlepool United for their support and I look forward to representing the club again once my ban is complete."

Hartlepool's chief executive Russ Green said: "I am still astounded by the charge and the club's support remains fully with Carl.

"I know that doing something like that is not in Carl's nature and it's disappointing for him and for the club that we will be without him for a period of time.

"He's a committed professional though and there is no doubt that he will work hard in the coming weeks to ensure he remains in peak condition for when he is able to return."

Magnay, who has featured prominently for Ronnie Moore's side this season, has already served a three-match ban for his red card.