The manager of Tenerife says the 12-game ban given to goalkeeper Jesus Owono following the collision that led to Jesus de Miguel's death seems "a bit light".
Owono collided heavily with De Miguel in mid-air during the Spanish Segunda Division match between Tenerife and FC Andorra at the start of this month. The forward, 30, tragically died the following day, sending Spanish football into mourning.
Owono was sent off as a result of the collision and was banned for 12 games by a disciplinary committee on Friday.
Manager comments on ban
Alvaro Cervera, the head coach of Tenerife, has commented on the length of Owono's ban, which was the maximum penalty available to the disciplinary committee given they could only consider the offence on the pitch rather than the tragic consequences of the collision.
While he feels the ban is light, he also acknowledged that the regulations do not "specifically account for what happened".
"I think that, just as in other areas of life, there are rules or laws that must be followed," said Cervera, whose team will play for the first time since De Miguel's death on Sunday against Ceuta.
"Since the current regulations don't specifically account for what happened, I believe they have simply adhered to the rules and imposed the number of matches permitted by the regulations.
"Anything else I might say would just be my own personal opinion, which I'll keep to myself. It might seem a bit light when compared to other cases, but in reality, I don't think the rules allow for anything else."
Referee's report and player statement
The disciplinary committee shared that the referee's report said Owono was sent off for "violently striking an opponent in the chest with his leg, using excessive force, while the ball was in play".
The 25-year-old released a statement following De Miguel's death, which read: "These are the most difficult days of my life. I struggle to find the words, and I find it very hard to process what has happened.
"I feel enormous pain at the loss of Jesus. I think of him, his family, and all the people who loved him. I know there will be many questions to address.
"I will face whatever comes with the utmost respect. But right now, honestly, I cannot think about anything other than Jesus and the pain we are experiencing. Rest in peace, Jesus."
