Columbus Crew forward Cucho Hernandez given one-match suspension for offensive language | OneFootball

Major League Soccer has suspended Columbus Crew striker Cucho Hernandez for one match for using offensive language in a match against the Portland Timbers on September 18.

Hernandez will serve the suspension in the Crew's match against the New York Red Bulls on October 1.

It was revealed that Hernandez - who has scored nine goals in 15 appearances this season - was not provided with the league-mandated training on prohibited language that is required of all players upon arrival to an team.

Both Columbus and Hernandez released statements following the suspension.

“I accept the outcome of the League’s ruling and sincerely apologize for the harmful language I used during our recent match against the Portland Timbers,” Hernandez said.

“I understand that my language was unacceptable and plan to reach out to the Timbers organization and the player to offer my apologies and fully intend to learn from this situation. I also apologize to my teammates and our fans as this is a critical time of the season.”

Crew President and General Manager Tim Bezbatchenko added: “We are disappointed that our player used disrespectful and offensive language directed to an opponent and we will take this as an opportunity to better educate our players and learn from this.

Cucho expressed immediate remorse for his unacceptable language choice and volunteered to apologize to the Timbers organization and participate in sensitivity training.”

Following his one-match ban, Hernandez - a two-time Colombia international - will be available for away fixtures at and Orlando City, with the Crew sitting eighth in the Eastern Conference, only outside the MLS Cup Playoffs spots on games won.