Leeds striker Souleymane Doukara handed eight-match FA suspension for violent conduct

Souleymane Doukara is set to miss all but one of Leeds United's remaining 2015/16 fixtures after being handed an eight-match suspension by the FA for an act of violent conduct committed during a 1-1 draw with Fulham at Elland Road on 23 February. The French striker has notched five goals in 27 appearances across all competitions so far this term, but will not be available for selection again until the final day of the season at Preston North End.

In a statement to confirm his punishment, the FA said: "Souleymane Doukara will serve an eight-match suspension with immediate effect after he was found to have committed an act of violent conduct. The Leeds United forward was charged following an incident which occurred in the 54th minute of the game against Fulham on 23 February 2016.

"The breach of FA Rule E3, which the player denied at an Independent Regulatory Commission hearing on Wednesday [30 March 2016], was considered a non-standard case given the seriousness and both unusual and violent nature of the misconduct. Mr Doukara was also warned as to his future conduct and fined £5,000."

Although the FA do not expand any further on the behaviour beyond labelling it unusual and violent, multiple sources, including Sky Sports, claim that Doukara was found to have bitten Fernando Amorebieta. The Fulham defender, who had recently seen a season-long loan spell with Middlesbrough cut short, was yellow carded for his reaction before being dismissed for a second bookable offence in stoppage time.

"The club is unable to comment on this matter in any further detail until the full written judgement is released," Leeds responded via their official website. "Suffice to say, however, the club is disappointed with the outcome and the length of the ban given to Souleymane Doukara."