Aston Villa's Jean Makoun was stunned that a straight red card results in a three-match ban in England.
Villa enforcer in disbelief over three-match suspension
Aston Villa midfielder Jean Makoun has admitted he was stunned at the news that a straight red card in the Premier League resulted in a three-match ban.
The Cameroon international, who joined Villa in January from Lyon for £6million, saw red in their 1-1 draw with Blackpool in February, and has been unable to play for the club since due to suspension.
Makoun was told by team-mate Fabian Delph about the length of suspension he would receive.
Despite enjoying life at his new club, Makoun conceded that he had found it difficult to be sat in the stands and unable to have an influence on the pitch as Villa struggle to find their form.
"I am feeling really good. Everything has gone well since I've been here - apart from my red card, of course," he told the club's
official website.
"In France, if you're sent off it's a one-match ban, with perhaps another match added in too. When I first heard it was three games, I thought 'what, you're joking?'
"It really upset me. It was after the match in the dressing room. Fabian told me 'you're now out for three games' and I said 'no, no'. I thought 'am I ever going to play again?' I couldn't believe it.
Raring to go
"I am absolutely raring to go now. I felt really bad after the red card. I had put lots of effort into getting used to the game here and being ready to put the work in for Villa.
"I felt after the red card like I was no use. It was really hard to take. It was really upsetting because above all else I want to contribute and help the team.
"It happened so quickly. I was just starting to get the rhythm of the game in this country and suddenly it was cut short for three matches.
"I am not a good spectator either. I don't like watching games because it winds me up. I prefer to be out there on the pitch and helping. I don't even like watching on television either.
"Now I am raring to go. I can't wait to get started again. I want to make a big impact on the team. It's seemed like an eternity. I have been waiting patiently.
"We're finally there now. I am prepared for the next game now, which is a tough match against Wolves."
