It has been confirmed that Bristol City striker Famara Diedhiou has been issued with a six-game ban by the Football Association. This came after an alleged spitting incident occurred in the 52nd minute their home victory against Birmingham City in April.
The Robins have today written a formal response to the charge, stating that they are considering an appeal against the suspension. The 25-year-old, who scored 13 Sky Bet Championship goals for Bristol City last season, is set to miss the first month or so of the new season. Diedhiou signed in 2017 from Angers.
The match at Ashton Gate was on Tuesday April 10th, a match which Bristol City were victorious by a 3-1 margin. Diedhiou played 80 minutes of the game, before being substituted for Matty Taylor.
The football club are sticking by their player, who pleaded not guilty to the allegations, and will not be making any further comment at this time,
“The club is extremely disappointed with the decision of the Regulatory Commission and continues to give its full support to Diedhiou, who vehemently denies the allegation.
The Regulatory Commission has imposed a six game ban on Diedhiou, which will come into effect at the start of the 2018/19 season.
Bristol City has requested the full written reasons from The FA and upon receipt will consult with the club’s legal team as to the options for appealing the decision of the Regulatory Commission.”
Video footage did not necessarily catch the incident in place, although Birmingham City centre back Harlee Dean was booked for fouling Diedhiou around this time. Players are then seen to be remonstrating with officials, whilst pointing at Diedhiou, indicating that he did spit at one of their players. These of course remain allegations, and Bristol City may still appeal against this.
