Biscan banned for six months

LIVERPOOL defender Igor Biscan’s decision to turn his back on Croatia has resulted in a six-month international ban for the 25-year-old.

Biscan walked out on the squad before a recent match against Bulgaria and, after failing to provide an excuse for his actions, the Croatian FA yesterday imposed a suspension.

However, Biscan is believed to have already told Croatia he no longer wishes to play for the national team.

Meanwhile, Markus Babbel could return home to Germany to play for Bundesliga side Schalke at the end of the season. Babbel, whose contract at Liverpool expires in 2006, is currently on loan at Blackburn but has hinted he would like to return to his homeland in the summer. Babbel is likely to be granted a free transfer by Liverpool.