Switzerland striker Alexander Frei has been handed a three-match ban after he was accused of spitting at England’s Steven Gerrard during a Euro 2004 match.
UEFA’s Appeals Body said that it had only “partially upheld” the appeal by European football’s governing body against the 25 year-old after examining video evidence and testimony from witnesses.
UEFA officials were understood to have been seeking a five-match ban.
Frei will miss Switzerland’s World Cup qualifying matches against the Faroe Islands on August 31, and at home to Ireland on September 8.
“Taking into account all the circumstances the Appeals Body considered a three match ban appropriate,” the statement said.
