Confusion over Suarez’s return date

As El Clasico draws nearer there is some confusion over when Luis Suarez’s four-month ban for biting Italy’s Giorgio Chiellini expires.

The Uruguayan is due to return for Barcelona’s clash with Real Madrid at the Santiago Bernabeu on Saturday, yet a debate has persisted since last June over the exact date his punishment ends.

Marca reports that FIFA remains firm in its stance that October 26, this Sunday, is the date he will have served exactly four months, while the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS), which allowed Suarez to train and play in friendlies following an appeal, says it is October 25.

To avoid any problems it is understood that Barca have asked CAS to clarify the date his ban expired, although FIFA are aware the organisation has no power to set the date it ends.

However, world football’s governing body believe Suarez has been punished enough, meaning that in theory he would be free to play against Madrid.

Nonetheless, complications could arise as Barca may then be accused of fielding an ineligible player if Real Madrid or a third party make an official complaint.

Tags Clasico Luis Suarez
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