Karpaty central attacker about UEFA decision to disqualify him for one Europa League group stage match.

“I have mixed fillings about UEFA decision. I’m happy that main football governing body paid attention to FC Karpaty appeal and disqualified me for one game only. It could’ve been more than that, since direct red card usually results in two- to five-game disqualification. On the other hand, its disappointing because I want to play every game. The fact that I won’t be able help my partners in such important game against such formidable opposition makes me feel even more sorry. Moreover, it will be the first match of the group stage, and a lot will depend on it. It will be hard to watch the game from Ukrayina stands. Every player will confirm that in situations like this it is much easier to be on the pitch rather than to follow the game from sidelines. But nothing can be done about it - a decision was made, now it has to be implemented”,- said Serhiy.

The player said that in his opinion, UEFA's decision implicitly recognized his innocence.

“You know, if UEFA saw that I actually broke the rules, or God forbid, came to the conclusion that I intentionally injured Galatasaray player, I don’t have any doubts that disqualification would not be limited to one game only. In such manner officials actually recognized my innocence. Frankly, deep inside, I had hoped that disqualification will be overruled altogether. With UEFA acknowledging my innocence the officials would have to impose some kind of penalty on the game referee. However, UEFA is too serious organization, so they accepted a compromise – to punish me, but only for the shortest term. So now I have to keep my fingers crossed for my teammates, hoping that they will show some decent play and achieve a positive result.” – has added number 79.

FC Karpaty Information Center, www.fckarpaty.lviv.ua
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