Aitsaret Noichaiboon has been handed a three-year ban by the Football Association of Thailand for a vicious blow to the face of an opponent during a Thai League 3 match last Sunday.
Former Bangkok FC player Aitsaret has been penalised for a Muay Thai-style elbow strike that left North Bangkok University FC's Supasan Ruangsuphanimit needing 24 stitches on the upper lip.
An investigating panel set up by the FAT unanimously found Aitsaret guilty of breaching the association's code of conduct for professional players.
Pol Lt Gen Amnuay Nimmano, chairman of the FAT disciplinary committee, announced yesterday that an order banning Aitsaret for three years had been signed by FAT president Pol Gen Somyot Poompunmuang.
Aitsaret has been barred from taking part in all activities organised by the FAT effective immediately.
A number of Thai football commentators say they have been disappointed by the leniency showed by the FAT as it was widely expected that the ex-Bangkok FC player would be banned for life.
The incident took place when Bangkok FC were trailing 3-0 in their Thai League 3 promotion play-off clash at North Bangkok University.
Supasan clipped Aitsaret during the closing stages of the match. Aitsaret reacted by throwing a devastating elbow into his opponent's face, instantly flooring him.
A video of the attack went viral and Bangkok FC terminated Aitsaret's contract on Monday.
The FAT disciplinary committee held a hearing on Thursday after which Aitsaret hugged Supasan and apologised for the incident.
"I would like to apologise for what I did on that day," said the former Bangkok FC player. "It was an emotional moment and I couldn't control myself.
"I am sorry and I apologise to Supasan, his team and everyone else for the incident."
Meanwhile, former champions Muang Thong United were held 1-1 at Suphanburi in a Thai League 1 game on Saturday night.
The Kirins were gifted lead in the first-half added time when Jung Han-Cheol scored an own goal. Danilo Almeida levelled for the hosts 15 minutes from time.
Hosts Police Tero played out a 1-1 draw with Khon Kaen United.
