Fred: 'Luis Suarez footballing ban life-destroying'

Brazil striker Fred has criticised FIFA's decision to give Uruguay striker Luis Suarez a four-month ban from all football activity, claiming that it could "destroy the life" of the controversial 27-year-old.

The Liverpool forward was judged to have bitten Italy defender Giorgio Chiellini during the Charruas' 1-0 win against the Azzurri last week, which prompted the world football governing authorities to sanction Suarez, also forbidding him to play international football for nine matches.

"It's undeniable that Suarez made a mistake, but I think this punishment was too harsh," Fred is quoted as saying by ESPN.

"As a fellow player and a human being I understand what footballers go through on the pitch. There's a lot of tension and disputes for spaces; it's always very nervy.

"A punishment as tough as that can destroy the life of an athlete."

The Uruguay FA has decided to lodge an appeal against the decision.