Just when it looked like Vitor Roque was on the comeback trail, he could now be facing a lengthy ban.
The former Barcelona striker has been back in form for Palmeiras after his sorry time in Europe and he has even earned a Brazil recall.
However, a post on Instagram may have got him into trouble as he will have to appear before the Superior Court of Sports Justice.
According to Brazilian media, he has been reported for a homophobic post on his social media in early October.
Roque, who is nicknamed ‘Tigrinho’ posted a picture of a tiger with a deer in its mouth.
In Brazilian culture gay men are crudely called ‘deer’ and it’s a nickname that Palmeiras fans use towards Sao Paulo supporters, who they’d just beaten 3-2.
Roque deleted the post, but was asked about it while away on Brazil duty.
“I see no reason for the suspension; an educational conversation is enough,” he said.
“It wasn’t homophobia, it was just a joke. I’m not afraid of being suspended. Palmeiras’ lawyers are working on the issue.”
However, should be be found guilty, he could face a suspension of up to ten games.
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