England defender Jarell Quansah has been handed a two-match suspension for his red card offense against Mexico in the World Cup round of 16. This was reported by Qazaqyia.kz citing Associated Press.
FIFA confirmed the two-match ban on Thursday. It means Quansah will miss England's quarterfinal match against Norway in Miami Gardens on Saturday and also the semifinals if Thomas Tuchel's team advances.
Quansah was sent off in the second half of England's 3-2 victory against Mexico on Sunday for a dangerous foul on Jesus Gallardo. FIFA deemed it serious foul play and imposed the two-match suspension.
FIFA's handling of red card punishments has come under intense scrutiny after its disciplinary committee suspended the one-game penalty of star United States striker Folarin Balogun after President Donald Trump intervened and contacted FIFA President Gianni Infantino. Infantino defended the independence of FIFA's disciplinary committee and insisted the Balogun case was properly handled.
Quansah's prolonged extension is the latest issue for Tuchel to contend with at right back. First choice Reece James has not played since England's second game of the tournament against Ghana due to a hamstring injury. His backup Tino Livramento was sent home before England even kicked off its campaign after injuring his calf. Tuchel opted to call up a center back in Trevoh Chalobah as his replacement, rather than going for a specialist right back. It meant Quansah, who usually plays in central defense, has taken on the role of deputy to James.