Former Valiant Ritchie Sutton helps makes a little bit of history
Former Port Vale player Ritchie Sutton’s appeal against a red card has led to the FA’s first-ever suspension under a new offence of feigning injury.
Sutton, who now plays for Tranmere Rovers, was shown a red card after an incident in a 1-1 National League draw with Welling at the weekend.
However, the defender appealed the decision and Welling striker Sahr Kabba has now been charged for “allegedly exaggerating or feigning an injury which directly led to an opponent being dismissed”.
Kabba – who now faces a three-match ban – has until 11 September to respond to the charge.
What is the new rule?
Under the rule introduced this season, a player who feigns injury and gets an opponent sent off could face a suspension.
As an example:
- Player A is sent off for violent conduct
- The dismissal is overturned after the incident is reviewed and it is clear that player B had feigned injury
- Player B is open to a charge and could face a three-match ban