Tottenham's Dembele accepts violent conduct charge

Tottenham Hotspur manager Mauricio Pochettino confirmed Mousa Dembele has accepted a charge for his actions on Monday against Chelsea, and it's widely expected Dembele could face a lengthy ban for his violent conduct.

The Belgian soured what's been a superb campaign in the Spurs' midfield when he appeared to gouge the eye of Blues' agitator Diego Costa in a match that saw Tottenham concede the title to Leicester City after a 2-2 draw.

Related: FA charges Chelsea, Tottenham, Dembele for London derby behaviour

Dembele had until Thursday to respond to the charge from the Football Association.

The 28-year-old was one of a few Tottenham players who faced criticism for their conduct at Stamford Bridge, but Pochettino maintains he is proud of his players' attitudes.

"All the people that play football knows situations like Monday can happen. Maybe we agree in theory but to apply this is difficult," the Argentinian told reporters Friday.

"When you play for the title it is difficult to keep calm. I feel proud of my players. We show big character. Sometimes you cross the line and if you do that you need to pay.

"It is a good lesson for us. We need to learn a lot for next season. We will be stronger next season."

Spurs' remaining target of the season is to finish above arch-rival Arsenal for the first time since 1995. They take on Southampton and Newcastle United to finish the campaign, and begin with a three-point cushion over the Gunners.