Friday, December 23, 2011

Lawyer: Suarez Likely To Appeal Ban

The lawyer of Luis Suarez believes the Liverpool striker will likely appeal against an eight-match ban handed down by the Football Association.

On Tuesday, Suarez was handed the ban and a £40,000 fine after being found guilty of racially abusing Manchester United defender Patrice Evra.

The FA have since confirmed that the suspension could be extended if he launches a failed appeal, but Alejandro Balbi, who is also Suarez's agent, said the Uruguay international was "convinced" the decision could be reversed.

"It seems to us absolutely out of proportion," Balbi said. "It's one of the hardest sanctions handed down in English football. He is firmly convinced this hard sanction can be reversed."

Balbi, speaking from Montevideo, says Suarez is determined to clear his name following the verdict which caused the striker "a great deal of pain".

Suarez's team-mates, meanwhile, wore T-shirts in a public show of support prior to their draw with Wigan on Wednesday evening, something which will no doubt give the 24-year-old hope as an appeal appears increasingly likely.

"Luis strongly denies the racist acts levelled against him. He has met his punishment with a great deal of pain but also with a lot of dignity and with the support of his family and friends," said Balbi.

"He will protest his innocence right to the end. He wants to restore his tarnished image, at least at the heart of English football.

"He is deeply upset but he has told us that he's going to redouble his efforts to continue to play the best way possible not only for his English club but also for the Uruguay national team."

Suarez has been given 14 days in which to launch an appeal against the FA's decision.

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