Aune Heggebo banned for two matches following handball controversy

West Bromwich Albion forward Aune Heggebo has been issued a two-match suspension after the Football Association (FA) ruled he “successfully deceived” a match official. The ruling follows a controversial 75th-minute goal during a 2-1 Championship victory against Norwich City, where Heggebo deflected a cross into the net using his arm.

The FA charged the Norwegian international with misconduct under Rule E3.1. Although West Brom appealed the decision, an independent regulatory commission upheld the charge, stating the player handled the ball in a “direct and successful attempt to score a goal.”

West Bromwich Albion has expressed support for Heggebo, arguing the contact was accidental. The club maintained that the ball deflected off Norwich goalkeeper Vladan Kovacevic immediately before hitting Heggebo’s arm, leaving the player with almost no time to react. The club also noted that this may be the first instance of such a charge in English football following a regulatory change two years ago. Heggebo will miss upcoming fixtures against Burnley and Newcastle United.