Valencia defender David Navarro feels his seven-month suspension is 'excessive'.
Valencia defender David Navarro feels his seven-month suspension is 'excessive'.
Navarro was punished for his role in the brawl which marred the end of Valencia's recent UEFA Champions League clash with Internazionale at the Mestalla.
At the final whistle, Navarro - an unused substitute - ran on to the pitch and punched Inter stopper Nicolas Burdisso before running away from the scene.
Uefa banned him from European competition for seven months, and Fifa have since extended the sentence to include domestic and international matches.
Valencia have appealed against the censure, with Navarro hoping for a reduction in his punishment as he is sorry for what happened.
"My regret for what happened should be the basis of the appeal because it was genuine and reflects what I really feel," Navarro told AS.
"I'm not an aggressive person. The punishment is excessive and I hope the appeal will be successful."
A decision is likely to be made next Wednesday and Navarro admits it has been a turbulent time for his family.
He added: "It is a difficult time for me and my family, but now is not the time to give up because that won't solve anything.
"My conscience is clear after giving the news conference in which I asked forgiveness for what happened."
