With Manchester United already playing catch-up in the title race, a ban for key striker Romelu Lukaku is something they could do without. Unfortunately, that nightmare could become a reality.

The Belgian forward could be slapped with a three-match ban for his actions in the 1-0 win over Brighton and Hove Albion. Despite earning all three points, the Red Devils forward let his frustration take over in a tussle with an opposing defender.

Lukaku was involved in a fight for the ball with Gaetan Bong and appeared to kick out at the Cameroonian defender. The former Everton striker was not punished by the referee for his action, but the FA might not him the same slack.

The FA are reviewing Lukaku's kick out at Brighton's Bong on Saturday - If he gets a three match ban, he will miss the Manchester Derby.

A big blow for City as Mourinho will be forced to start the game with eleven men. pic.twitter.com/79O60jvDJM

— Footy Accumulators (@FootyAccums) November 27, 2017

There have been talks of a retrospective ban, with BBC Sport reporting that a three-match suspension would be the likely punishment should the FA find him guilty of violent conduct. If true, that could mean terrible news for Mourinho’s side.

Not only will they be without their top scorer for three games, two of them are against a top-six club. On December 2, Man United travels to Arsenal in a tricky clash before hosting Man City in the Manchester Derby a week later.

Lukaku would miss both games if banned by the FA. The Special One will eagerly await news from the FA as they prepare to take on Watford this midweek.