Ex-Barcelona star Vitor Roque is facing up to a potentially lengthy spell away from the pitch over the months ahead.
This comes as a result of a controversial social media post unveiled by the striker last month.
The post in question, on Roque’s official Instagram account, saw the 20-year-old post a photo of a tiger eating a deer.
This was taken by many to be an insult directed at São Paulo, with the word ‘deer’ often used as slang for ‘gay’ to mock São Paulo’s supporters.
Roque’s post, which was quickly deleted, came in the aftermath of Palmeiras putting their Brasileiro rivals to the sword by three goals to two.
As per a report from COPE, though, this may not prove enough for the youngster to avoid a sanction:
‘The Superior Court of Sports Justice has scheduled the trial of Palmeiras striker Vitor Roque for next Monday, November 17,’ it has been confirmed.
Should he be found guilty of homophobia, Roque could face anywhere from a 5 to 10-match suspension.
As much would mark a heavy blow for a player in the thick of a remarkable resurgence in front of goal, which recently culminated in a recall to the Brazilian national team.
Conor Laird – GSFN
