Ribery faces lengthy ban after shoving assistant referee

Joe Williams
Franck Ribery Fiorentina

Fiorentina forward Franck Ribery has apologised after shoving an assistant referee following his side’s defeat against Lazio.

The 36-year-old former France international could be facing a lengthy ban after the incident on Sunday night.

Fiorentina were beaten 2-1 at home by Ciro Immobile’s last-minute goal in the Serie A clash.

Moments before, La Viola felt they should have been awarded a free-kick for a foul but the referee waved play on and Ribery let his frustrations be known after the final whistle.

He was seen on camera in a heated exchange with the linesman, who was forcefully shoved twice as Ribery protested. Serie A officials have since confirmed that the Frenchman was shown a red card following the game.

On Monday, Ribery said sorry for his actions, posting on Twitter: “I apologise to my teammates, the coach, the fans. I apologise to (linesman) Mr. Passieri.

“I was very upset and sad after the end of the match. I hope he can understand my state of mind.”