Bournemouth midfielder Jefferson Lerma has been charged by the FA for allegedly biting an opponent.
The incident allegedly occurred during their 1-0 defeat away to Sheffield Wednesday on Saturday, November 3.
Bournemouth Midfielder Jefferson Lerma Charged for Allegedly Biting Sheffield Wednesday Player
The Incident
Lerma allegedly bit a Sheffield Wednesday player during the 83rd minute of the game at Hillsborough. The Owls won the game in the end via a 94th minute Kadeem Harris goal.
The Colombian international has been a regular feature in the Cherries’ line-up so far this season, making 17 appearances in all competitions. He has scored two goals so far this season, the last of which came against Coventry City at the start of October.
Lerma’s alleged offence breaks the FA’s rule E3, which relates to improper conduct. An FA statement read: “AFC Bournemouth’s Jefferson Lerma has been charged with a breach of FA Rule E3.
“It is alleged that the midfielder committed an act of violent conduct by biting a Sheffield Wednesday FC player during the 83rd minute of an EFL Championship game on Tuesday 3 November 2020.
“Jefferson Lerma has until Thursday 24 December 2020 to provide a response.”
Bournemouth Response
Bournemouth have issued a statement in response to the allegations. It read: “AFC Bournemouth acknowledge the FA’s charge relating to Jefferson Lerma breaching FA Rule E3 during a Sky Bet Championship fixture at Sheffield Wednesday on 3rd November 2020
“Jefferson strenuously denies the allegation made against him and has cooperated fully with the FA’s initial investigations into the alleged incident. He will request a hearing over the charge.
“AFC Bournemouth fully support Jefferson and will continue to do so throughout the process.
“The club will make no further comment at this time.”
Should he be found guilty of the charge, it is likely that Lerma will face a lengthy ban. Luis Suarez received a 10-game ban for famously biting Branislav Ivanovic in 2013.
Missing Lerma for the amount of time will be a huge blow for the Cherries. They currently sit second in the table on 38 points, two points ahead of third place Swansea City.
Jason Tindall’s side are next in action on December 30, as they face a trip to Brentford.
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