Football news - Diego Tardelli banned for rubbing face during China anthem

The 14-times capped Shandong Luneng midfielder - who joined the club from Atletico Mineiro in 2015 - has been disciplined after falling foul of a law passed last year to punish individuals who disrespect the country's anthem the 'March of the Volunteers'.

The 33-year-old Tardelli was spotted rubbing his face on television with his right hand and looking at the ground before the league match with Shanghai SIPG on Sunday.

“Tardelli’s manners were not solemn when the national anthem was played and sung, causing adverse social impact,” said the Chinese Football Association in a statement.