The Sheffield Star understands that the Football Association are to meet in the coming days to discuss a possible suspension for Sheffield Wednesday forward Fernando Forestieri. The Argentinian was accused of throwing a punch after the final whistle during an very competitive pre-season friendly with Mansfield Town in July.
Mansfield won the game 2-1, but it was certainly not short of talking points. This video shows Forestieri making a strong challenge on Krystian Pearce, who also made allegations of receiving racial abuse. Mansfield midfielder Calum Butcher is the one who was potentially on the wrong end of a punch from Forestieri, and the FA are to meet to discuss everything that occurred and of any possible punishments for any Sheffield Wednesday or Mansfield Town player.
Forestieri has begun the Owls’ previous three matches as a substitute, after starting all their Championship games prior to this. Whilst he is undoubtedly a skilful and talented player, potentially losing him to a ban may not be as much of a concern for Jos Luhukay as it may have been before. It is three wins in a row for Wednesday, who enter the international break in high spirits.
Jacob Mellis of Mansfield is another who could be in hot water after he had an altercation with opposing Tom Lees after the game in question.
Mansfield manager David Flitcroft says the club received a report from the FA, of which he says the ‘timing is really poor with planning’, considering the game took place in late July. It won’t be the last we hear of this matter, with the FA set to make an announcement this week at some stage to reveal any ramifications.
