Former Celtic defender Jack Hendry has been sanctioned with a ban and fine after what officials described as “disgraceful behaviour” during a recent match in Saudi Arabia…
The centre-back, who made 27 appearances during his time at Celtic, is currently a senior figure at Al-Ettifaq in the Saudi Pro League…
Earlier this month, his side took on Al-Nassr, captained by Cristiano Ronaldo, where Hendry was shown a late red card following a clash with João Félix.
The decision proved contentious, with some suggesting the dismissal was harsh, but Saudi authorities have stood by the call and imposed further punishment over his conduct.
The decision is not subject to appeal
A statement from the Saudi Arabian Football Federation’s Disciplinary and Ethics Committee confirmed Hendry will serve a two-match suspension and pay a fine of 20,000 riyals (around £3,954) following the incident.
It read: “The violation consisted of the player engaging in disgraceful behaviour towards a player from the opposing team, according to what was stated in the match referee’s report, which led to the penalties being imposed on him. The decision is not subject to appeal.”
As Al-Ettifaq pushed for a late leveller, Hendry surged out of defence and drove into Al Nassr’s half in the latter stages of the game.
Then, Felix – formerly of Chelsea, Atlético Madrid and AC Milan – stepped across to try stop the ex-Hoops defender, but the Scotland international caught him in the face with a raised arm during the challenge.
Hendry plays alongside former Celtic striker Moussa Dembele
Hendry currently shares a dressing room with former Celtic striker Moussa Dembele at the Saudi club. Earlier this month, the pair lined up against local rivals Al-Qadsiah, now managed by Brendan Rodgers.
In a twist of fate, both Hendry and Dembele found the net in that encounter, handing Rodgers his first defeat since taking charge.
Hendry has earned 36 caps for Scotland since making his debut in March 2018, just weeks after joining Celtic.
Although his time in Glasgow failed to fully take off, Hendry rebuilt his reputation with strong spells in Belgium at KV Oostende and Club Brugge.
Conor Spence
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