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Liverpool striker Mario Balotelli banned for one match over image

By Allsports.com.gh
Sports News Liverpool striker Mario Balotelli banned for one match over image
DEC 18, 2014 LISTEN

The Italian was deemed to have committed an aggravated breach of Football Association Rule E3 [2] after posting a picture on Instagram and Twitter containing potentially offensive language referring to "ethnic origin and/or colour and/or race and/or nationality and/or religion or belief".

Balotelli has also been given a £25,000 fine and ordered to attend an education programme.

Former Milan striker Balotelli received criticism for the picture that contained video game character Super Mario and a series of racial stereotypes.

The image was later taken down and Balotelli issued an apology for his actions, stating that the post was intended to be "anti-racist" and in good humour.

The 23-year-old has been struggling with a groin problem, but the punishment means he will definitely miss Sunday's Premier League fixture at home to Arsenal.

Balotelli has been warned as to his future conduct.

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