Spitting accusation sees Watford star Imran Louza facing possible six-match ban

Watford have had a turgid season so far in the Championship after relegation from the Premier League and it could get worse after Imran Louza was charged with spitting by the FA

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Callum Vurley Sports Reporter

09:43, 12 Oct 2022

Watford star Imran Louza has been charged with spitting by the FA

Watford star Imran Louza is facing a six-match ban after being charged with spitting by the FA.

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The incident occurred against Swansea last Wednesday when the two teams took on one another in the Championship. There was already tension in the air after 20 minutes were added on at the end of the match due to the official's equipment faltering.

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Swansea struck during the extended injury time through Ben Cabango in the 98th minute before Watford had a penalty appeal in the dying moments in the match. No decision was given and it led to a flare-up on the pitch.

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As players locked horns, it is believed that is when Swansea players accused Louza of spitting at Ryan Manning. The Morocco international had come on 11 minutes into the second-half with the scores level at 1-1.

The incident has since been referred to the FA, who have charged the 23-year-old with spitting and demanded a response by Thursday, 13 October. The sporting body have since released a statement over the matter.

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It read: "Watford FC’s Imran Louza has been charged with a breach of FA Rule E1.1 following their EFL Championship game against Swansea City FC on Wednesday 5 October 2022.

Watford star Imran Louza has been charged with spitting by the FA

"It is alleged that the midfielder spat at an opposing player towards the end of this fixture, and he has until Thursday 13 October 2022 to provide a response."

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If Louza is found guilty, it will mean that the midfielder will miss six matches in the Championship. And it could not happen at a more difficult period for Watford.

It has been a poor start to life in the Championship for the Hornets since their relegation last season from the Premier League and new manager Rob Edwards has already been sacked. Slaven Bilic has since arrived but fortunes are yet to change for the Hornets.

They have won just one of their last six matches while defeat to Blackpool on Saturday has left them 12th in the table, six points above relegation.

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