How Long Should Ryan Shawcross Be Suspened For?

Just as the Arsenal vs Stoke encounter was about to turn truly exciting, Ryan Shawcross commited a challenge that ruined everything. The imposing Englishman made a stupid, unnecessary challenge that left Welsh teenager Aaron Ramsey with a fractured tibia and fibula.

Five minutes after the hour mark Shawcross clattered into Ramsey who had unluckily put a heavy touch on a half volley. Ramsey was quicker than Shawcross, so the 22 year old charged into the 19 year old, ending his season.

The challenge left Ramsey's leg in such a horrific state that players were visibly shaken and almost reduced to tears. Shawcross was immediately given a straight red and left the field crying. Was he devastated that his attempt to hurt Aaron Ramsey had turned out so badly or the shock of seeing a leg so out of place?

Shawcross was given a three match ban, whilst Ramsey's exciting career comes to a huge halt, as does his development. The Welshman is set to spend a year maybe even more on the sidelines recovering from a horror injury. 

So has Shawcross gotten off way too lightly?

Although it was not a malicious challenge from the English defender, Shawcross had every chance to pull of the challenge. From first glance it seems just two players colliding with one feeling more extreme force.

But on closer examination, it shows a reckless leg swing from Shawcross which provided the damage. Shawcross came in intending to cause damage to Aaron Ramsey. He was not aiming to inflict the damage he did but the Stoke centre half came in far to recklessly with the intention of knocking over Aaron Ramsey.

Many people have different views of the awful challenge. Some feel Shawcross mistimed his tackled and in no way meant any harm. Others suggest Shawcross knew what he was doing but put too much power into his challenge.

Shawcross's suspension has also come under debate. Fans were calling for the former Manchester United youth to be suspended for life. Others felt a direct yellow was more necessary during the game.

What is the ideal punishment for hampering such an exciting career?

Seeing as Ramsey is out for the rest of the 2009/2010 and potential 2010/2011, should Shawcross be given a ban for the rest of the season? Is a life time ban necessary? Or has everyone been too harsh on poor Ryan Shawcross?