Chiellini: Suarez bite ban is 'excessive'

Chiellini was bitten on the shoulder during Italy’s 1-0 World Cup defeat to Uruguay, which put the South Americans into the last 16 at the expense of the 2006 winners.

While the Juventus defender was outraged at what Suarez did at the time, showing bite marks to the referee to no avail as the Liverpool striker remained on the pitch, he has said in his first extended interview since the incident that he has moved on.

“Now inside me there’s no feelings of joy, revenge or anger against Suarez for an incident that happened on the pitch and that’s done,” Chiellini stated on his official website. “There only remain the anger and the disappointment about the match.

“At the moment my only thought is for Luis and his family, because they will face a very difficult period.

“I have always considered unequivocal the disciplinary interventions by the competent bodies, but at the same time I believe that the proposed formula is excessive.

“I sincerely hope that he will be allowed, at least, to stay close to his team mates during the games because such a ban is really alienating for a player.”

Suarez received a ban of nine international matches plus a four-month ban from all footballing activity. That means he will miss some of Uruguay’s defence of the Copa America trophy next year even if they reach the final in Brazil.

His lawyer, Alejandro Balbi, has flown to Barcelona to begin building a case for appeal on Suarez's behalf, having signalled that the player will fight FIFA's ban until the end.

He is also reported to be meeting with Pere Guardiola, brother of Pep, who acts as Suarez's agent.

Reports in Spain indicate Suarez's representatives could also take the opportunity to discuss a possible transfer to Barcelona.