Quyet, in an attempt to steal the ball, elbowed Nghiem Xuan Tu of Quang Ninh Coal in the face. His foul was not recognised by the referee but caught on television.

The Vietnam Football Federation watched the replay and decided to sideline Quyet and impose a fine of VNĐ15 million (US$670).

The midfielder who is the national captain, was one of the leading candidates for the Golden Ball, awarded to the best player of the year. However, one of the standards for the winner is to be clear of any VFF suspension.

Last year Quyet also received a five-match ban for pushing a referee. It cost him a berth in the national team, which went on to play two matches in the 2018 World Cup qualification round.

According to rumours, Thai champions Buriram United are looking to bag Quyet for their league next season.

VFF also fined striker Uche Iheruome of FLC Thanh Hoa VNĐ5 million ($220) and suspended him from two matches due to his extreme reaction against referee Vo Minh Trí during a match against Song Lam Nghe An on November 25. — VNS