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Shanghai Shenhua midfielder Qin Sheng has been fined and dropped to the reserves after his stamp on Axel Witsel at the weekend. Qin stamped on the Tianjin Quanjian player in the 24th minute of a game that ended in a 1-1 draw. The 30-year-old has been fined RMB300,000 (£35,750) and his salary reduced to the minimum permitted by the club for the duration of his time with the second string. "In the 24th minute, Greenland Shenhua player Qin Sheng deliberately stamped on the foot of his opponent, and was immediately shown a red card by the referee," Shenhua said in a statement. "His behaviour was against sportsmanship and shamed Chinese football and his club." Shenhua said the punishment would serve as "an example to others and enhance the understanding of club discipline" and that further punishments would be considered depending on Qin's "attitude and performance." Qin has also been told any hope he has of leaving the club this season will be blocked. The player said sorry on social media, writing: "My personal behaviour affected the whole team. "I want to apologise to the fans, club officials and coaches, as well as my pals fighting together on the pitch. "As a professional player, I should not take such revenge but respect the referee's decision."
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