UEFA ban Gila for two matches
UEFA has banned Fiorentina striker Alberto Gilardino for two matches following his sending off against Lyon in the Champions League last week.
The Italy international received his marching orders just before half-time after it looked as if he swung an elbow at Lyon midfielder Jeremy Toulalan.
Immediately after the game Fiorentina Coach Cesare Prandelli said he thought Gilardino's actions did not warrant a red card.
“Gilardino told me that he did not hit his opponent deliberately, however, the referee did not agree so we were forced to play the match with one player less until the end,” Prandelli explained.
UEFA has taken the referee's view of the incident and Gilardino will now be unavailable for Fiorentina's upcoming matches at home to Liverpool and away to Debrecen.
He will be eligible to play again on November 4 when Debrecen travel to Florence.
The news comes as a massive blow to Fiorentina, especially considering Gilardino has already scored three goals in seven appearances this season, one of which came in Europe.
