By BBC (Sports) | Created at 2025-01-10 11:46:40 | Updated at 2025-01-10 15:33:41
4 hours ago
Image source, Getty Images
Borja Sainz has scored 15 of his 16 goals this season in the Championship
Norwich City's top scorer Borja Sainz has been suspended for six matches after admitting to spitting at Sunderland's Chris Mepham in December.
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.
"Additionally, I extend my apologies to my team-mates, our coaching staff and our fans. I am deeply disappointed in myself and for letting all of you down through my conduct."
Sainz has started in each of the four games since the spitting incident, helping the Canaries to three wins in an unbeaten run since then.
The suspension means he will miss Saturday's FA Cup third-round tie against Premier League side Brighton & Hove Albion, as well as trips to Championship high-flyers Sheffield United and Leeds this month.
He will also be unavailable for games against Swansea City, Watford and Derby County before being available again to return against Preston North End on 11 February.
"While I am saddened to miss the upcoming games, I will use this time to reflect, learn and refocus, so that I can return stronger and continue contributing to the team for the rest of the season," Sainz added.
