Norwich’s Sainz banned for six matches for spitting

Borja Sainz, Norwich City’s top scorer, was given a six-game suspension after admitting to spitting at Chris Mepham’s December goal.

The Championship’s leading scorer has also be fined £12, 000 by the Football Association for the incident which took place in the 74th minute of Norwich’s 2-1 defeat at the Stadium of Light.

The Spaniard – who has netted 16 goals for the Canaries this season, but has failed to add to that tally since November – said he takes “full responsibility” and “deeply regrets” what he did.

“Spitting at an opponent is completely out of character for me, and my reaction in that moment was unacceptable”, said Sainz.

“I want to apologise directly to the opposing player, Chris Mepham, for my behaviour.

Since the spitting incident, Sainz has started in each of the four games, leading the Canaries to three victories and one unbeaten start.

Due to his suspension, he will miss Saturday’s FA Cup third-round match against premier league side Brighton &amp, Hove Albion, as well as league tripgoers Sheffield United and Leeds this month.

Before returning to Preston North End on February 11, he will not be available for games against Swansea City, Watford, and Derby County.