Manny Monthe: Walsall defender banned for seven matches for homophobic remark

Manny Monthe made 44 appearances for Tranmere in 2020-21 before joining Walsall this summer

Walsall defender Manny Monthe has been banned for seven matches after he was found to have made a homophobic comment in a League Two match.

Monthe, who was playing for Tranmere at the time, used "language that included a reference, whether express or implied, to sexual orientation" in a game against Forest Green on 1 May.

The 26-year-old, who denied the charge, has also been fined £1,200.

Monthe said he was "deeply saddened" by the outcome of the hearing.

In a post on Twitter, he continued: "Whilst I respect the process that the FA undertakes in such matters, I categorically deny making any such comment.

"The threshold for a proven case for the FA is 'balance of probability' and by its very nature, this is much lower than a court of law which must be satisfied 'beyond reasonable doubt'.

"I will serve my seven-game ban and pay the fine issued as I look to put this matter behind me."

Monthe, who joined Walsall from Tranmere in June on a two-year deal, must also complete a mandatory education programme.

The Saddlers said in a statement that the written reasons for the decisions made by an independent regulatory commission will be published "in due course".