LuaLua ready to contest increase in ban
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Portsmouth's striker Lomana LuaLua is prepared to fight the imposition of an additional ban after he was charged with misconduct by the Football Association.
The FA acted after LuaLua was reported by the referee Andy D'Urso for refusing to leave the pitch after being shown a red card for appearing to head-butt Andy Todd in Portsmouth's 1-0 home defeat to Blackburn in the Premiership on Saturday.
He is set to receive a three-match suspension for the dismissal but the FA could decide to extend the ban, possibly by a further two games, as a result of his conduct.
However, the former Newcastle striker is determined to defend himself against that.
"I do not think I deserve a longer suspension," he said. "I admit I deserved a red card, but I was not going back on to the pitch to fight - I wanted to tell the referee that the Blackburn player had thrown a punch.
"I felt if I had been sent off then he should be too. Being suspended for three games is bad enough but five is over the top." His case will be dealt with by the FA's disciplinary committee next Tuesday.
The Everton manager David Moyes has expressed surprise at the FA's decision to charge the club with failing to control their players during the 1-1 draw at Middlesbrough on Sunday. The club have a fortnight to respond to the charge, which relates to a mêlée involving several players from both sides.
The referee Dermot Gallagher chose not to punish anyone at the time but the FA decided action was necessary after studying video evidence.
Moyes said: "I'm surprised. I'd like to know the actual individual who called the charge, because if there is one they have no understanding of football. It was just a challenge."
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments