RIYADH, 16 May 2008 — A disciplinary committee of Saudi Football Federation yesterday took strong action against Al-Ittihad striker Al-Hassan Keta for his rude behavior and immoral action during the final match of the King’s Cup for Champions at King Fahd International Stadium in Riyadh on Wednesday.
“The committee decided to abrogate the contract of the player from May 15, 2008, pay all his dues by Ittihad club and that no Saudi club should sign contract with him in the future,” the committee said, adding that it would present a report to FIFA on Keta’s misbehavior during the match.
The committee said Keta displayed immoral conduct using his hands and spat toward the assistant referee during the match.
The federation urged Saudi and non-Saudi players to abide by sporting spirit and uphold moral values while taking part in national and international events.
It was not clear if Keta could appeal the punishment. For now though his football career is effectively over.
