Pompey Women’s midfielder, Leeta Rutherford, has been issued an eight-game suspension by the Football Association. The 35-year-old, currently in her third tenure with the team, received this significant penalty due to her use of ‘ableist language’ directed at an opposing player during her time at Southampton.
This incident occurred during a match between Saints’ Women and Sunderland in the Women’s Championship on February 12. When originally accused of this offense, an FA statement stated that her language towards a Sunderland Ladies player was deemed abusive, indecent, and insulting. Moreover, it was alleged that the language used was discriminatory, involving a reference to disability, whether explicit or implied. Despite denying the charge, Rutherford was found guilty by an independent commission.
In addition to the suspension, the experienced player has been fined and instructed to participate in a face-to-face education program. Pompey Women are currently ranked third in the FA Women’s National League Southern Premier Division, trailing the leaders, Hashtag United, by six points with two games in hand. Their next match is against Plymouth Argyle on Sunday.
Rutherford, who has also played for Lewes and Crystal Palace, rejoined the club in July after making 15 appearances for Southampton last season. Before her latest spell with the Blues, she accumulated 215 appearances for Pompey, scoring 46 goals since her debut in 2005.
As a result of her ban, Rutherford is expected to be sidelined until the new year.