Prunea ban lifted

The Romanian Professional League (LPF) has decided unanimously to reverse its decision to ban FCM Bacau goalkeeper Florin Prunea for six months for leading a protest march.

Increased fine
However, the LPF has increased the fine it handed to Prunea, who is vice-president of the Romanian Amateur and Non-amateur Players' Union (AFAN), from €432 to €4,600.

Alexandru comments
LPF general secretary Valentin Alexandru said: "The player said that the protest march was not directed against any of the LPF or FA officials. He also took back some of the statements which he made. Bacau also explained that he is a key player in their squad and we don't want to inflict any injustice to any of our affiliated clubs or players."

Prunea not happy
Prunea himself was not happy with the decision. "I can afford to pay this fine, but there are players who earn [€4,600] in one year," he said. "I will appeal against this fine with the [Romanian] FA's executive committee and I'll fight until all fines against me are wiped out. I will not make any compromises."

'Correct decision'
However, Bacau president Gheorghe Chivorchian said: "It's a correct decision. The fine will be paid by the player, because it's his fault. I want to thank to all who contributed to the clearing of the case."

Original decision
The AFAN organised a players' protest march on 20 December last year. Earlier this month, the LPF banned Prunea for nine months, but the ban was later cut to six months.