LONDON — Junior Firpo, a defender for Leeds United, has been handed a three-match suspension due to an alleged headbutt directed at a Millwall player during a recent match in the English Championship, the country’s second professional football tier.

On Saturday, the English Football Association announced that the suspension stemmed from findings of “violent conduct” on Firpo’s part. Despite his denial of these accusations, the governing body proceeded with disciplinary action.

The incident reportedly took place in the 95th minute of the match on Wednesday, where Leeds was down 1-0 against Millwall. After a ball had gone out of play, Firpo appeared to make contact with Millwall’s defender, Danny McNamara, suggesting an off-the-ball offense.

According to the FA’s statement, the match officials did not notice Firpo’s actions during the game, but video evidence subsequently revealed what had transpired. The statement further confirmed that even though Firpo contested the allegation, an independent regulatory commission reviewed the footage and deemed the charges valid, leading to the suspension.

Starting on Saturday, Firpo will serve his ban when Leeds United plays against Queens Park Rangers, marking the immediate impact of this ruling on the team’s defensive lineup.