Wolves forward Matheus Cunha has been hit with an extended ban after being sent off for violent conduct in his team’s FA Cup defeat by Bournemouth earlier this month.
Cunha had scored a stunning equaliser to send the last-16 tie to extra time, but then got involved in an altercation with Cherries full back Milos Kerkez.
As the clock ticked down towards penalties, Cunha saw red after launching a shocking attack that saw him punch, kick and headbutt Kerkez.
He was charged by the FA, and after reviewing the incident an independent commission has announced Cunha has been given a four-match suspension – one more game than he was initially slated to serve.
An FA statement read: ‘An Independent Regulatory Commission has imposed a one-match suspension and £50,000 fine on Matheus Cunha.
‘The Wolverhampton Wanderers forward was charged with acting in an improper manner after he was sent off around the 121st minute of their FA Cup tie against AFC Bournemouth on Saturday 1 March.
Matheus Cunha had his ban extended after punching, kicking and headbutting Milos Kerkez
‘The player subsequently admitted the charge.
‘The Regulatory Commission imposed his sanctions following a hearing, and its written reasons for them will be published in due course.
‘Matheus Cunha will now be suspended from domestic football until Sunday 13 April.’
Cunha’s afternoon went from bad to worse after his red card as he watched his team-mates lose to their penalty shootout at the Vitality Stadium to exit the FA Cup.
He apologised for his moment of madness on Instagram later that evening as he wrote: ‘In the end, another game where you guys did your best. I couldn’t lose my head at the end. Sorry.’
Cunhas already missed two matches since the Bournemouth loss, with Wolves drawing 1-1 at home to Everton before winning 2-1 at Southampton.
He will miss Wolves’ games against West Ham and Ipswich after the international break, but will be available when the Midlands club host Tottenham on April 13.
More to follow…
