Preston North End’s Milutin Osmajic “justifiably” serves a nine-match ban according to Burnley boss Scott Parker.

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The 26-year-old was hit with the suspension after he was charged with racially abusing Burnley’s Hannibal during the 0-0 draw at Deepdale back in February.

Osmajic has also been fined £21,000 and ordered to attend a mandatory education course.

The Montenegro international missed his first game on Saturday during Preston’s 1-1 draw with Millwall and will now be absent for a further eight games – leaving him out of action until Boxing Day.

When asked if Hannibal now feels vindicated, Parker told the Burnley Express: “Yeah, I'm sure he does.

“We've shown our full support behind Hann and what was done has now been proven with a guilty verdict.

"We always say there's no room for that sort of behaviour and what happened there. The decision is made and he serves that ban justifiably.”

Scott Parker pictured speaking to Hannibal after the incident took place in February (Photo by Lewis Storey/Getty Images)

placeholder image — Scott Parker pictured speaking to Hannibal after the incident took place in February (Photo by Lewis Storey/Getty Images)

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Background

Speaking on social media after the game on February 15, Hannibal said “he will not be silent” and promised to “always call out racism” whenever he heard it.

Osmajic strongly refuted the claims, but he was formally charged by the FA in March. Eight months later, following an FA hearing, it was found proven on the balance of probabilities.

The commission’s written reasons for its decisions will be published in due course.

Preston, meanwhile, said they were “extremely disappointed” with the decision and repeated their support for the player.

Anti-discriminatory charity Kick It Out praised Hannibal’s “courage” in calling out racism.

They added: “Everyone has a responsibility in standing up to discrimination, but Hannibal has shown others how we can make football a safer and more welcoming game for everyone.”

The Burnley Express is seeking clarification on whether PNE are able to appeal the decision.

Your next Burnley FC read: Burnley FC: Kick It Out releases statement on Hannibal's 'courage' following Milutin Osmajic ban