Barcelona star Luis Suarez 'allowed to play in friendlies despite upheld ban'

Barcelona striker Luis Suarez is permitted to feature in friendlies, despite the Court of Arbitration for Sport upholding FIFA's four-month ban for biting.

The Uruguayan was originally hit with the punishment after biting the shoulder of Italy defender Giorgio Chiellini at the World Cup in Brazil.

After the prolific striker appealed the decision, with the hope of getting his suspension halved, CAS announced today that Suarez remains banned from all competitive matches, but will be allowed to train with his teammates.

Widespread reports have now emerged claiming that the 27-year-old, who moved to Camp Nou from Liverpool for a reported £75m fee this summer, will also be available for friendly fixtures.

Suarez, who is also banned from nine international matches with Uruguay, will make his competitive debut for Barcelona in October.