Former Arsenal midfielder Alex Song has been banned from representing his country after an elbow on Mario Mandzukic against Croatia last week.
Song, was helpless as his country lost out to Croatia, ending their hopes of qualifying for the knockout stages of the World Cup and his frustrations were clear to see midway through the tie as he elbowed Bayern Munich striker Mandzukic.
The Barcelona midfielder was sent off for his actions and immediately asked for forgiveness from his country’s supporters, but football’s governing body FIFA have been less forgiving, banning him for a total of three games.
Song’s future at club level is up for debate this summer, with Barcelona seemingly keen for him to pursue a move elsewhere, leading to interest from a number of English clubs, such as Manchester United, Chelsea, Tottenham Hotspur and former club – Arsenal.
The 26-year-old made just 19 appearances in the league for Barca last season but came under heavy criticism following a defeat to Real Sociedad in the second half of the season, leading to talks of a possible exit.