Giorgio Chiellini of Italy shows the bite mark which the Uruguayan FA
are claiming has been Photoshopped. Photograph: Maurizio Borsari/Rex

Uruguayan FA defends Luis Suárez, claiming bite marks are Photoshopped

• Fifa insiders expect six-match ban as the punishment
• Fowler: ‘I wouldn’t be surprised if he left Liverpool now’

•  
• The Guardian, Wednesday 25 June 2014 21.30 BST
• BY OWEN GIBSON IN RIO DE JANEIRO

The Uruguayan Football Association has gone on the offensive in an effort to save Luis Suárez from a lengthy ban for biting Giorgio Chiellini,claiming he is the victim of a smear campaign by the Italians, the English media and the Brazilian hosts.

As Suárez came under pressure from his sponsors, fellow professionals and Fifa’s disciplinary committee after sinking his teeth into Chiellini’s shoulder, the Uruguayan FA attempted to circle the wagons.