Anelka hit with 18-match ban by French federation

NICOLAS ANELKA’S France career could be at an end after he was yesterday hit with an 18-match suspension by the French Football Federation.

Chelsea striker Anelka was disciplined for his part in the internal strife which contributed to Les Bleus’ early exit from the World Cup in South Africa.

Patrice Evra has been handed a five-match ban, Franck Ribery a three-match suspension, Jeremy Toulalan a one-game ban, while Eric Abidal and the remaining members of the 23-man squad have escaped further punishment, having already missed the first match of Laurent Blanc’s reign as coach.