Fifa opens proceedings against Neil Taylor following the Wales defender’s leg-breaking horror tackle on Republic of Ireland defender Seamus Coleman
Taylor's tackle during World Cup qualifier broke Coleman's leg in half and Dragons defender faces lengthy ban
FIFA have opened proceedings against Neil Taylor for his leg-breaking horror tackle on Seamus Coleman.
Wales defender Taylor's challenge snapped the Everton man's leg in two and he now faces a prolonged ban, with the Dragons already facing an uphill task to qualify for the 2018 World Cup.
The hearing is likely to be held within the next fortnight and Taylor's automatic one-match ban could be increased to three games once Fifa study ref Nicola Rizzoli's report
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Coleman needed surgery on a broken tibia and fibula following the 69th-minute lunge in Friday's goalless draw.
The Everton defender faces months on the sidelines and Taylor who, along with suspended Gareth Bale, will definitely miss Wales' next qualifier away to Serbia in June, now faces the prospect of a lengthier spell away.
Coleman, 28, was given oxygen as he was stricken on the floor on Ireland’s right flank before being whisked away for surgery.
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He headed to St Vincent's University hospital in Dublin before undergoing successful surgery on Saturday.
Evertonians Tony Bellew, Ross Barkley and Wayne Rooney were quick to slam Taylor's tackle, while former Wales international John Hartson branded it "reckless and irresponsible."
Bellew branded the tackle "disgusting".
Ireland boss Martin O'Neill said: "The operation was successful. He has realised everything that has happened and is very disappointed.
"It will take some time to heal, it's a double break but it has been pinned up now and screwed in.
"I know the doctors and surgeons are all very, very pleased with the way the operation has gone and now it's time for recuperation.
"I saw him the evening of the injury, he was fairly groggy.
"It's a devastating blow for the lad, he was having a phenomenal season at his club and a phenomenal season for us as captain."