The Ukrainian FA have defended their decision to suspend Taison for his reaction to racist abuse.
Taison was sent off for Shakhtar Donetsk after reacting to alleged racist abuse from Dynamo Kyiv fans by kicking the ball at them as well as sticking his middle finger up.
But the 31-year-old's red card has not been overturned and a high ranking Ukranian FA official has made some controversial comments about the situation.
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Igor Gryshchuk stated per The Independent:
"Why it was important to hold the player accountable for such behaviour? Because the gesture... was also broadcast on TV.
"We understand that the player addressed it to the stalls only and to the fans who expressed certain emotions against him - but those who watched the game on TV, including the children, could not perceive the gesture in a proper way.
"In any case, this behaviour and reaction deserved a red card, referee did a right thing when he used it, in our opinion. That's why the player had to be held accountable."
FIFAPro had also asked for the suspension to be overturned but the UAF (Ukrainian Association of Football) said a one match suspension would stand alongside a conditional two-match ban.
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"Regular punishment for such an action, for such gestures is a three-match ban," Gryshchukadded.
"But taking into account all circumstances of the case, all mitigating circumstances, addresses by our colleagues from the FIFPro and that this behaviour was provoked by fans' racist chants, we used the mildest sanction."
The incident is one of many that have blighted football this season.
Mario Balotelli was abused by Hellas Verona fans earlier this month and tried to leave the pitch in protest.
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England's Euro 2020 qualifier against Bulgaria was also marred by racist abuse which nearly saw the game abandoned.
This weekend, teams across Holland have taken a stand against abuse and refused to play in the first minute of their games.
Footballing authorities must work harder to help eradicate the problem which has begun to become more frequent in recent years.
Featured Image Credit: PATopics: Football News, Racism, Football, Dynamo Kyiv, Shakhtar Donetsk
