A Vietnamese defender has been handed a record 28-matchban by the VFF (Vietnam Football Federation) for a breaking an opponent’s leg in a V-League game last month.
Vietnam international Tran Dinh Dong, who plays for V-League 1 side ‘Song Lam Nghe An’, flew in two-footed on Nguyen Anh Hung, breaking his leg.
Hung broke his fibula in the clash, and was rushed to hospital in an unconscious state. While he was operated on successfully, the ‘Hung Vuong An Giang’ midfielder is now expected to be out of action for a year.
As well as receiving the lengthy ban, Tran has also been fined 20m dong (£567), and ordered to play the injured player’s medical bills.
His club has announced it intends to appeal the decision.
Tran’s coach Nguyen Huu Thang said (via the BBC): “I will fine him if he does wrong. I think the VFF (Vietnam Football Federation) issued the fine under pressure from public opinion, not based on reality.”
“We will appeal because his absence would strongly affect our name and V-League results.”
The VFF said in a statement: “The punishment is meant to be a warning to players throughout the nation, where violent behaviour on the field has gradually become more popular.”
A truly horrific example of a ’50-50′ challenge gone wrong, these types of encounters are among the most dangerous for footballers, with referees taking a strong stance as a matter of precedent.
This historic ban, in my opinion, is fully justified, and I’m impressed with the VFF in coming down hard on the player.
What do you think? Should he be banned for such a long period? Let me know in the comments below…
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