Sporting Kansas City midfielder Roger Espinoza will be suspended for Friday’s match against D.C. United, the MLS disciplinary committee announced Thursday.
Espinoza’s punishment was levied for “violent conducted that endangered the safety of an opponent,” according to the committee. In the 85th minute of Saturday’s loss against Real Salt Lake, Espinoza wrapped his arms around Stephen Obayan Sunday’s neck while defending a corner kick.
Espinoza has started 13 of the club’s 14 matches this season. Sporting KC will already be without captain Matt Besler, forward Graham Zusi and defensive midfielder Soni Mustivar, who are with their respective national teams for Copa America.