Fiorentina forward Franck Ribery faces lengthy suspension after shove on Serie A assistant referee

The French veteran has been a revelation up front for La Viola this season

Franck Ribery is thriving at Fiorentina (AP)

Fiorentina forward Franck Ribery has issued an apology via the club, after being shown a red card for shoving an assistant referee following his side’s defeat against Lazio.

The 36-year-old is likely to face a lengthy ban after the incident on Sunday night, which saw La Viola beaten 2-1 at home after a last-minute goal.

Ciro Immobile scored with a firm header after a cross from Jordan Lukaku, but Fiorentina players were incensed that no free-kick was given their way in the build-up.

The result was a first Serie A defeat in seven games for Fiorentina, who also had Luca Ranieri sent off, and Ribery vented his frustrations after the final whistle.

He was seen on camera in a heated exchange with the assistant and shoved him twice in protest.

Serie A officials have since confirmed that Ribery was shown a red card following the game.

Since joining the club in the summer after departing Bayern Munich, Ribery has excelled in a two-man attack alongside fan favourite Federico Chiesa, who scored Fiorentina’s equaliser in the match – assisted by Ribery. Joaquin Correa had earlier put Lazio ahead.

On Monday, Ribery said via Twitter: “I apologise to my teammates, the coach, the fans. I apologise to (assistant referee) Mr. Passieri.

“I was very upset and sad after the end of the match. I hope he can understand my state of mind.”

PA