Leeds United striker Souleymane Doukara banned for biting

Leeds United striker Souleymane Doukara has been banned  for eight matches for biting an opponent.

Soccer players seem to be hungrier over the past few years. Luis Suarez has infamously tried to eat many an opposing player, and Diego Costa was very close to tucking in to Everton midfielder Gareth Barry in Chelsea’s FA Cup loss to the Merseyside club. The cannibalism phenomenon that has overtaken the soccer world has now seen Leeds United striker Souleymane Doukara banned for eight games.

The bite occurred in Leeds United’s 1-1 draw with Fulham on 23rd February. Doukara allegedly bit Cottagers’ Spanish defender Fernando Amorebieta, and has been fined £5,000 for his troubles.

In a statement, the FA stated: 

"“[This] was considered a non-standard case given the seriousness and both unusual and violent nature of the misconduct.”"

Leeds United have stated their disappointment with the length of the ban, but have yet to announce whether they will appeal the decision. The ban, without any future alterations, will see Doukara unavailable for the Northern club until the last game of the season. Thankfully for Leeds, they are safely in mid-table in the Championship and are under no threat of relegation after a recent resurgence under manager Steve Evans.

Doukara, however, will not be in the picture for some time, and will now look to keep his job with the club ran by tumultuous owner Massimo Celino. The owner has sacked five coaches during his time with the club and very nearly ran the club into the ground.

Biting is an issue in football right now, and Doukara is only adding to the issue. Harsh punishment is needed and the FA must remain strong in their punishment of the 24 year old.

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