Valdes set to miss four league games

BARCELONA, Spain (AP)

Barcelona goalkeeper Victor Valdes has been suspended for four Spanish league matches after receiving a straight red card for verbally abusing a referee following his team's 2-1 defeat against Real Madrid at the weekend.

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The competition committee of the Spanish Football Federation sanctioned Valdes on Wednesday, the club said in a statement.

Referee Miguel Angel Perez Lasa noted in his match report that Valdes swore at him after he had not given a penalty against Sergio Ramos and shouted, "You are shameless."

The 'keeper will miss the next four league matches; three games at the Camp Nou against Deportivo La Coruna, Mallorca and Rayo Vallecano, and one away fixture at Celta Vigo.

Barcelona says it is appealing. Valdes has played in 34 games this season and conceded 41 goals.