Brentford player suspended after sexism during Cardiff game

Last updated : 22 October 2016 By Michael Morris

Brentford's Alan McCormack has been given a five-match ban and fined £6,000 after using abusive language towards a female match official, reports BBC Sport

An independent commission found the midfielder, 32, had committed an "aggravated breach" of FA rules during the 2-1 win over Cardiff on 19 April.

Lisa Rashid was an assistant referee and men involved in the match overheard the comments and complained.

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McCormack, who denied the charge, must also attend an educational course.

The Irishman was found to have breached FA Rule E3(2) by making reference to the official's gender.

He will be eligible to play again on Saturday, 3 December against Norwich.

The west London club said they acknowledged the FA's decision but would not comment further until they had received the written reasons for the verdict.

Former Southend and Swindon player McCormack has made 96 appearances since joining the Bees in 2013.

Women in Football, a network of professional women who work in the game, said: "Women in Football are pleased that men associated with the game complained about McCormack's insulting language to a female official.

"We also thank the FA for taking the complaint seriously and that the player concerned has now been handed an appropriate sanction."