Ghana star Mohammed Kudus ‘deeply embarrassed’ as FA extends ban
LONDON, ENGLAND – OCTOBER 19: Mohammed Kudus of West Ham United clashes with Micky van de Ven of Tottenham Hotspur and is subsequently shown a Red card during the Premier League match between Tottenham Hotspur FC and West Ham United FC at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium on October 19, 2024 in London, England. (Photo by Marc Atkins/Getty Images)Mohammed Kudus has expressed deep regret over his red card in West Hams 4-1 loss to Tottenham last month after his suspension was extended by two additional games.The Ghanaian winger, initially handed a three-match ban, was charged with violent conduct and unsporting behaviour during the heated encounter.The incident, which took place in the 82nd minute, followed Kudus foul on Micky van de Ven, sparking a confrontation between the two teams.Dutch defender Van de Ven accused Kudus of “punching him in the face,” and Pape Matar Sarr was also shoved by the West Ham player.Though Kudus initially received a yellow card, it was upgraded to a red following a VAR review, leading to an automatic three-match ban.After further investigation, the FA extended his suspension by two games, and he was also fined 60,000.In a letter submitted to the regulatory commission, Kudus admitted that he was “deeply embarrassed” by his actions and accepted the charge.He acknowledged his behaviour as “out of character” and clarified that while he did not recall the full details of the incident, the video footage showed minimal contact with Van de Ven.Kudus also explained the personal and professional challenges he faced before the match, including negative comments on social media and a recent international trip.Kudus has already missed matches against Manchester United and Nottingham Forest and will sit out West Hams upcoming fixture against Everton.