Alloa's Niang given two-match suspension for Ideguchi challenge
The SFA have upgraded the midfielder's original booking to a red card
Alloa Athletic midfielder Mouhamed Niang has been suspended by the SFA for two games over his challenge on Yosuke Ideguchi during last weekend’s Scottish Cup tie.
Niang was originally booked for the tackle by referee Don Robertson during the 2-1 victory for Celtic.
However, the SFA disciplinary panel has now upgraded the decisions to a red card.
Alloa manager Barry Ferguson had suggested earlier this week that the club would appeal any ban given to Niang.
Ideguchi was making his first start for the club but had to be substituted and has subsequently been put on the ‘long-term’ injury list by manager Ange Postecoglou.
The Japanese wasn’t the only Celtic player forced off in the fixture, as Liel Abada and Callum McGregor were both also withdrawn.
Captain McGregor suffered a significant facial injury and is also out for a number of weeks.
Speaking after the game, Postecoglou claimed officials have a duty of care to players: “I think the referee’s role in any game is to be the protector of both sets of players by making sure there’s an environment there that protects players from incidents like we saw.
“It wasn’t just the one causing the injury, I thought there were quite a few challenges he could have taken better control of.
“I don’t question referees’ decisions, I understand they’ve got a difficult job to do.
“We’ve had some good ones, we’ve had some bad ones. I’ve never used them as an excuse.
“But in terms of protection of players, that’s where referees have to be vigilant — because we’re told they will be at the start of every season."