The 28-year-old was punished after clashing with Dirk Kuyt during his club's 2-0 defeat at Liverpool on Wednesday night.

Match referee Mark Halsey and his team of officials did not see the incident, but Babayaro was charged after disciplinary chiefs viewed video footage.

The Nigeria international's admission means his penalty will begin this weekend, although he will be available for the UEFA Cup clash with Levadia Tallinn on Thursday night.

An FA spokesman said: "Celestine Babayaro has admitted the charge and will be suspended for three games with immediate effect."

The former Chelsea defender was banned in similar circumstances last season after an altercation with Everton's Tim Cahill.