Will Matheus Cunha play vs Leicester City - latest as Wolves star charged by FA for misconduct
The latest on Matheus Cunha’s availability amid suspension talk before Wolves’ trip to Leicester City in the Premier League.
New Wolves manager Vitor Pereira has admitted he isn’t sure if Cunha will feature against Leicester this weekend, but the understanding is he’s available until the Football Association officially tells him he’s not.
Cunha was due to find out his fate at close of play yesterday (December 19) after an investigation was launched by the FA over alleged misconduct.
The Brazilian was involved in an altercation with a member of Ipswich Town’s staff after Wolves’ 2-1 defeat last weekend. Cunha appeared to elbow the individual in the back of the head before forcefully removing his glasses – as dramatically caught on camera.
It took a while for the FA to intervene as they had to properly assess the evidence, but a statement was released on Tuesday. It read: “Matheus Cunha has been charged with misconduct following the Premier League match between Wolverhampton Wanderers and Ipswich Town on Saturday, 14 December.
“The forward allegedly acted in an improper manner after the final whistle. He has until Thursday, 19 December, to provide a response.”
Wolves face a nervous wait to hear the final decision from the FA but a punishment is very likely. Cunha could be dealt a fine and potentially suspension from English football for a certain number of matches.
Fantasy Premier League managers with Cunha in their teams will also be anxious to hear the result of the FA’s hearing as Cunha has been an excellent cheap forward on the game and there aren’t many suitable replacements at his price point (£7.1m).
Pereira, when asked about the situation, commented: “I am not sure because we haven’t decided. He is an important player in our team.”
If Cunha does receive a ban, Wanderers could theoretically appeal to delay its implementation for the vital Premier League relegation six-pointer away at Leicester City.
Manchester United (H), Tottenham Hotspur (A) and Nottingham Forest (H) are the three games to follow the trip to the King Power Stadium.