Larsson gets two-match ban after attack on rival

STOCKHOLM: Former Barcelona and Celtic star Henrik Larsson on Friday received a two-match ban from the Swedish Football Federation (SFF) after punching a rival player in a Swedish Cup match.

"Larsson's actions had nothing to do with the run of play and can not be seen as an unintentional reflex. The (federation) rules the incident merits a two-match ban," the SFF said in a statement.

Larsson, who won last season's Champions League title with Barcelona before moving to Swedish side Helsingborg, hit Elfsborg player Jon Joensson in the chest during the match on August 19.

Joensson had to leave the pitch injured but no action was taken by the referee who did not see the incident.

A private individual who was watching the match filed a police complaint against Larsson, although on Wednesday prosecutor Tom Svensson said he would not launch an investigation.

The SFF launched its own investigation into the affair which resulted in Friday's suspension.

Larsson has denied intending to harm Joensson, saying he was attempting to pull away from the player.

Larsson will miss upcoming matches against Gais and Malmoe FF.