Spertsyan says racism accusations groundless and offensive

PanARMENIAN.Net - Eduard Spertsyan, midfielder for the Armenian national team and Russian club Krasnodar, has responded to the controversy involving Senegalese defender Ousmane Ndong during Matchday 11 of the Russian Premier League against Akhmat Grozny.

Spertsyan could face a lengthy suspension, possibly missing up to 10 matches due to the incident.

“I’d like to comment on yesterday’s situation, which has already gone too far. The unfounded accusations against me are unacceptable. I’m ready to prove my innocence in any way: review the camera footage, read my lips, or take a polygraph test. I have no issue with that. I’m confident and I know I didn’t say anything like that,” Spertsyan said in a statement.

“I grew up in the Caucasus. I know all the nuances. My parents raised me right. I would never allow myself to say such a thing. I have many friends and acquaintances around the world. What’s happening now is frankly a bit ridiculous and resembles a circus. Know this, I stand by my words and I’m ready for anything.”

The match ended in a 2–0 win for Krasnodar. During the game, Ousmane Ndong was shown a red card for headbutting Spertsyan with his shoulder, according to Match TV.

The Russian Premier League has announced that it will investigate the incident, reviewing all available footage and the positions of both parties.