Aston Villa have been dealt a blow in their Sky Bet Championship resurgence, with Leandro Bacuna receiving a six-match ban following his sending off in last weekend’s victory over Derby County, confirms the club’s official website.
Bacuna reacted angrily towards the linesman's decision to award Derby a throw-in, late in last Saturday’s victory, appearing to bump the official with his chest.
The midfielder is set to miss a large part of the remainder of the season following his punishment, including difficult tests against promotion chasing Huddersfield Town and Sheffield Wednesday.
Steve Bruce’s side were without Bacuna for Tuesday’s 2-0 victory over Bristol City, where one of his possible replacements, Conor Hourihane, scored his first goal for the club.
Following four consecutive defeats at the beginning of February, Villa recorded back-to-back victories over Derby and Bristol, easing relegation fears around Villa Park.
Bruce’s side now sit 15th in the Sky Bet Championship, nine-points above the relegation zone, but with such an unpredictable league, Bacuna’s suspension could be a vital blow for Villa.
Villa fans… What do you make of the length of Bacuna’s ban? Do you feel it is a harsh punishment? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below!