Ball (right) later gave away a penalty by bringing down Ronaldo

Manchester City defender Michael Ball has admitted a Football Association charge of violent conduct.

Television replays showed Ball stamping on Manchester United winger Cristiano Ronaldo during the Manchester derby on Saturday, which City lost 1-0.

Ball told City's website: "I deeply regret what I did and have accepted the charge without hesitation. I have also sent a personal apology to Cristiano."

The 27-year-old is set to be banned for three games after Thursday's hearing.

Ball added: "My action should not be seen on a football pitch and I know we have a responsibility at Premier League level to set a good example to the whole football community.

"I am proud of my disciplinary record and have never been sent off in my professional career."

Ronaldo converted a penalty to win the game for United - after he had been tripped by Ball.

In an eventful game for the 27-year-old, Ball went on to win a spot-kick for his team when Wes Brown was adjudged to have brought him down but Darius Vassell missed the chance to earn City a point.