WISBECH striker Tom Gosling has been banned from football for more than seven months after two incidents, including one of alleged racism, but is hoping he hasn t played his last match for the Fenmen. The 21-year-old received a 224-day ban and a £200 fine

WISBECH striker Tom Gosling has been banned from football for more than seven months after two incidents, including one of alleged racism, but is hoping he hasn't played his last match for the Fenmen.

The 21-year-old received a 224-day ban and a £200 fine at a Cambridgeshire Football Association disciplinary hearing on Monday night.

He was banned for 182 days and fined £150 after being red-carded for angrily confronting the referee after being booked for a late tackle in Wisbech's 2-1 Boxing Day win over Swaffham.

Gosling denies racially abusing two Felixstowe and Walton players in an away league match on November 24, but received a 42-day ban and £50 fine for comments he is alleged to have made.

The referee did not caution the striker, but added in his report that the home manager had told him Gosling made racist remarks to two of his players.

Wisbech manager Roy McManus said: "I was expecting Tom to receive a lengthy ban for the Boxing Day incident and I can't defend his actions in this case. But Tom has always denied making racist remarks and nothing was brought to my attention during or after the match. It's quite bizarre that the Cambs FA have dished out their punishment on hear-say evidence. I think they took his reputation into account."

Gosling, who would now not be available until October - three months into next season - had developed a fiery reputation after having poor disciplinary records at his former clubs Spalding, Holbeach and Pinchbeck United.

He has personally apologised to his team-mates and manager.

He also issued an apology to the Wisbech supporters on the club's website, which says: "Sorry to Roy McManus, the board, my team-mates and all the fans at Wisbech. I have let you down big time. I'm going to bounce back stronger and fitter, with a better attitude. I have learnt my lesson.

"Also I don't like to think I am solely responsible for changing our league position. Football is a team game and you can't take anything away from the lads, all try hard and give 100 per cent every week.

"I'm not looking for another club, I've been really enjoying it at Wisbech - I love the place.

"Thanks for everybody's support and I hope to see you all again next season."

McManus said: "Tom has been tremendous for us this season and he's really helped us gain some valuable points.

"I've shaken hands with him and there are no personal issues between us.

"My main priority now is trying to ensure that we avoid relegation, so I'm not even thinking about next season and can't say if Tom will play for the club again.