Suarez charged with violent conduct for Ivanovic bite

Luis Suarez has been charged with violent conduct by the Football Association following his bite on Chelsea defender Branislav Ivanovic.

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The FA were able to charge Suarez as referee Kevin Friend did not see the incident when it happened, in the 74th minute of the game. Therefore, “retrospective” action was therefore possible.

Again, The FA’s proceedings proving hypocritical due to Jermaine Defoe receiving no retrospective action for a biting incident on Javier Mascherano, but crucially the referee saw that and booked the Spurs player in 2006.

Suarez has until 6pm on Tuesday to respond to the charge but is unlikely to challenge it.

Suarez, who issued an apology in the aftermath of the match on Sunday night, has also apologised to Ivanovic. He has been fined by the club, with the money being given to the Hillsborough Family Support Group at the player’s request.

Incredibly, a spokesman for Prime Minister David Cameron has somehow found it appropriate to comment on the matter.

FA Statement

“The FA has charged Liverpool forward Luis Suarez with violent conduct. The charge follows an incident with Chelsea’s Branislav Ivanovic in yesterday’s fixture at Anfield [21 April 2013].

“The incident was not seen by the match officials and has therefore been retrospectively reviewed.

“It is alleged that the conduct of Suarez constitutes violent conduct and it is The FA’s contention that the standard punishment of three matches that would otherwise apply is clearly insufficient in these circumstances.

“Suarez has until 6pm on Tuesday 23 April to respond to the charge, thereafter an Independent Regulatory Commission will be convened this Wednesday, 24 April.”

Spokesman for Prime Minister David Cameron

I think it is a matter for the footballing authorities.

As part of its consideration, it would be understandable if they took into account the fact that professional players are often role models.

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