It's not just Marler facing disciplinary panel over Saturday's striking incident

Both Harlequins prop Joe Marler and Sale backrow TJ Ioane will face disciplinary panels tomorrow for striking each over the course of the weekend.

The RFU statement read: "Joe Marler of Harlequins will appear before an independent disciplinary panel this week after receiving a red card from referee Matt Carley during Saturday’s Aviva Premiership match against Sale Sharks."

He was sent off for striking with the shoulder and making contact with Sale Sharks’ TJ Ioane, contrary to law 9.12 in the 58th minute.

Marler’s hearing will take place in London on Tuesday 9 January at 18:30. The panel will be chaired by Philip Evans QC with Aidan O’Brien and Becky Essex.

TJ Ioane of Sale Sharks has been cited by independent citing commissioner Shaun Gallagher and will appear before an independent disciplinary panel. Ioane is charged with striking Harlequin’s Joe Marler with the arm, contrary to law 9.12. The incident occurred in the 53rd minute of the same match.

The hearing will take place via telephone on Tuesday 9 January at 19;30. The panel will be chaired by Philip Evans QC with Aidan O’Brien and Becky Essex.

Marler appeared contrite on Twitter when answering a tweet from a fan, writing: "Thanks mate, really appreciate your thoughtful advice. Sorry to have let you down today."

It's the latest incident involving Marler this year, with the prop receiving a ban in October for an incident with James Haskell.

Marler spoke to the Rugby Pod earlier in the year after Marlande Yarde exit from the club and following his comments about the Lions Tour to New Zealand during the summer.