Liverpool Striker Luis Suarez Banned For 10 Games For Biting Branislav Ivanovic

Luis Suarez has been banned for 10 games by The FA for biting Branislav Ivanovic in the match between Liverpool and Chelsea last Sunday.

“Luis Suarez has been suspended for a total of ten matches after an Independent Regulatory Commission today ruled on a charge of violent conduct,” said a statement by The FA. “A three-person Independent Regulatory Commission today upheld The FA’s claim that a suspension of three matches was clearly insufficient and the player will serve a further seven first-team matches in addition to the standard three. The suspension begins with immediate effect.

“The Liverpool forward had accepted a charge of violent conduct but had denied The FA’s claim that the standard three-match sanction was insufficient for the offense.”

Suarez has until 7am ET on Friday to appeal the additional suspension.

In response to the length of the ban by The FA, Liverpool FC managing director Ian Ayre said: “Both the club and player are shocked and disappointed at the severity of today’s Independent Regulatory Commission decision. We await the written reasons tomorrow before making any further comment.”

Luis Suarez will miss the next matches against Newcastle, Everton and Fulham — plus a possible seven additional matches.

What are your thoughts regarding The FA’s ruling? Is a 10 match ban sufficient, or is it too heavy of a punishment? Share your opinions in the comments section below.