“It was unfair” – Aston Villa star disagrees with punishment, “no need” for incident in first place

Aston Villa goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez believes it was unfair to sanction him for hitting out at a cameraman while he was playing for Argentina.

La 10 cover an interview with the Aston Villa goalkeeper to D Sports in which he admits he believes he was harshly treated by the authorities regarding the incident.

Martinez was handed a two-match ban for Argentina by FIFA at the end of September after separate incidents in games against Chile and Colombia.

The former saw him celebrating with a fake Copa America trophy after the game in a manner which the authorities deemed inappropriate, something the Aston Villa goalkeeper has become known for.

The latter incident was more controversial as he was recorded hitting a local television camera following Argentina’s 2-1 loss to their rivals. Tempers for the game had already been high after Argentina beat Colombia 2-1 in the Copa America final less than two months beforehand.

Criticism of the Aston Villa star was widespread afterwards and FIFA moved quickly, banning him for two games despite Argentina appeals and later disagreement with the ruling.

The World Cup holders felt their man was being treated unfairly, particularly in the incident with the cameraman, and it seems Martinez agrees with them.

“There was no need, it was a little invasive, he was laughing and only the camera moved, but that’s it, it stayed there,” he said.

“I accepted the sanction, it was unfair to be honest, but there was nothing left, I hope it goes well for him.”