Add CategoryNEWCASTLE striker Roy O’Donovan will miss the first 10 games of next season after Football Federation Australia handed down their verdict on his ugly grand final challenge on Lawrence Thomas.
The FFA’s Independent Disciplinary & Ethics Committee determined the A-League record sanction after O’Donovan was found guilty of “Serious foul play” in a hearing on May 7.
O’Donovan’s suspension will begin with Newcastle’s first game in the FFA Cup in August when the A-League clubs enter at the Round of 32.
He will be able to serve up to three games in the cup competition depending on the Jets’ progress before the A-League season begins in October.
The Irishman is no stranger to controversy, having received an eight-match suspension for headbutting Manny Muscat on December 31 2015.
He also served a two-match ban in March after being caught by the video referee striking Sydney FC’s Jordy Buijs in the face during his side’s defeat of the Premiers.
The Jets have already indicated they plan on appealing the ban.