Two-match Euro ban for Drogba

Didier Drogba has been banned for two matches by UEFA for his red card against Inter Milan.

The Chelsea striker was sent off in the 1-0 defeat at Stamford Bridge on March 16 for stamping on Thiago Motta.

The 32-year-old already had a two-match suspended ban hanging over him for his behaviour towards referee Tom Henning Ovrebo in last season's semi-final against Barcelona.

That suspended ban is understood to relate to behaviour towards match officials, but the probationary period has now been extended from July 2011 to July 2013.

UEFA said in a statement: "Chelsea FC striker Didier Drogba has been suspended by UEFA's control and disciplinary body for two European club competition matches after being sent off in the UEFA Champions League round of 16 second leg against FC Internazionale Milano in London on 16 March.

"The suspension applies to the next two UEFA club competition matches for which Drogba would be eligible.

"The player's existing period of probation, which began on 15 July 2009 and was originally intended to run for two years, has also been extended to 15 July 2013.

"An appeal may be lodged within three days of the sending of the reasoned decision."