Thelo Aasgaard was forced to miss his Anderlecht debut because of a FIFA rule concerning a red card he received while at Rangers almost a year ago.
The Norwegian international joined the Belgian club on loan just before the transfer deadline last week, with Anderlecht holding an option to buy. However, he watched from the stands at the weekend as Anderlecht were held to a goalless draw by Genk.
Old Firm red card triggers suspension
It has emerged that Aasgaard was serving the second game of a two-match ban picked up while playing for Rangers in an Old Firm match 11 months ago. He was shown a straight red card for a challenge on Anthony Ralston in the first half of the League Cup semi-final against Celtic at Hampden, a match Rangers lost 3-1 after extra time.
Under the Scottish FA's disciplinary regulations, Aasgaard was required to serve a two-match ban for League Cup games. He missed Rangers' win against St Mirren at the start of the season but moved to Anderlecht before playing another game in the competition.
FIFA rule forces ban to carry over
Article 12 of the FIFA Regulations on the Status and Transfer of Players ensured Aasgaard missed his debut. It states: "Any outstanding suspension of up to four matches or three months following an international transfer must be enforced by the new national football association."
The Belgian FA informed Anderlecht before the game that the midfielder's suspension had to be carried over. The 24-year-old is now free to make his Anderlecht debut on Friday at Mechelen.
