FIFA president Sepp Blatter praises Suarez for apology

FIFA president Sepp Blatter is hopeful Luis Suarez can have his career back after he apologised to Italy’s Giorgio Chiellini for biting him during the World Cup.

Suarez initially denied biting the Italian defender in Uruguay’s 1-0Group D victory but FIFA’s disciplinary committee did not believe his claims that he fell into Chiellini’s shoulder and impost a four-month ban.

With the Uruguay FA planning an appeal and his potential move to Barcelona hanging in the balance, Suarez eventually issued an apology expressing his deep regret at biting Chiellini and vowing never to repeat his actions.

Blatter had previously refused to comment on the issue, but he has now commended the player for apologising.

“He said ‘I’m sorry’ to the soccer family, and that’s fair play. That shows he’s a great player and I hope he can have his soccer career back,” Blatter said.

There has been a mixed reaction to Suarez’s ban with many suggesting it has been harsh on the 27-year-old, but Pele believes it is a fair punishment.

“If he was not sanctioned in this way, such incidents could be repeated. No player can do what Luis Suarez did. I believe that the punishment is fair,” Pele said.

“Fifa’s decision is good and is correct because it sets an example.

“He’s a great player and he will bounce back.”