Jonny Evans Banned 6 Matches by FA for Papiss Cisse Spitting Incident

The Football Association banned Manchester United defender Jonny Evans for six games for spitting at Newcastle United's Papiss Cisse.

The FA's official website confirmed the news of the sanction, which included confirmation that the Magpies forward will serve a seven-match ban for his part in the incident. Here is a section of the statement in relation to the Northern Ireland international:

"

Newcastle United's Papiss Cisse and Manchester United's Jonny Evans will serve suspensions of seven-matches and six-matches respectively with immediate effect. 

Both players were charged in relation to an alleged breach of FA Rule E1[a] in that in or around the 38th minute of the fixture they spat at each other. ...

Mr Evans denied the charge but it was found proven following an Independent Regulatory Commission hearing on Friday [6 March], resulting in a six-match suspension. 

"

Scott Heppell/Associated Press

As aforementioned, Evans denied he intentionally spat at the Senegal star, claiming he was "totally unaware" of the incident and was "shocked" by the media coverage of it following his side's 1-0 win at St. James' Park, per the Press Association, via the Guardian.

United boss Louis van Gaal also insisted that there was nothing to the matter in his press conference ahead of the Red Devils' upcoming FA Cup clash with Arsenal, claiming it was "natural" and his player was "not aware" of what happened, per BBC Sport.

Paul Sancya/Associated Press

Evans' ban means he will now miss that upcoming fixture with the Gunners as well as a host of vital fixtures for United, per Goal UK:

Given the Red Devils' perennial problems at the back this season and looking at the tough run of games they have to come, Evans' ban could potentially be a major issue for Van Gaal. He's not a glamorous name but is a player whose defensive ability is understated, and his experience will definitely be missed in some of those upcoming tussles.