Jack Stephens Receives Two-Match Ban and Fine

Southampton captain Jack Stephens has received an additional two-match suspension and a £50,000 fine for misconduct after his red card against Manchester United. The defender was sent off during the match for a dangerous tackle on Alejandro Garnacho and subsequently used abusive language towards referee Stuart Attwell and fourth official Gavin Ward. Following a personal hearing, Stephens acknowledged his unacceptable behavior, expressing embarrassment and regret in a letter to the FA. Having already served a three-match ban for the initial offense, he will now miss upcoming fixtures against Arsenal and Leicester City. The FA's regulatory commission deemed the two-match suspension appropriate, noting Stephens' past clean record as a mitigating factor. This incident has left the Saints still winless in their last six matches.