GOALKEEPER Scott Flinders has been suspended by York City after he was found guilty by the Football Association of racial abuse during a match.

The club suspension - the 30-year-old has to stay away from the club completely - follows on from a five-match ban handed down by the governing body, which was imposed with immediate effect after an FA misconduct charge against him was found proven.

An FA statement said Flinders was "alleged to have used abusive and/or insulting words contrary to FA Rule E3(1) in or around the 71st minute of the game against AFC Wimbledon on 19 March 2016".

It added: "It was further alleged that this was an 'aggravated breach' as defined by FA Rule E3(2) as it included a reference to ethnic origin and/or colour and/or race.

"The charge, which the player denied, was found proven following an Independent Regulatory Commission."

Flinders was also fined £1,250, warned as to his future conduct and must complete an education course within four months.

A City statement said that further to the FA statement "York City Football Club has suspended Scott Flinders with immediate effect".

It added: "Scott Flinders does have the right to appeal the FA decision following an Independent Regulatory Commission held on 22nd August 2016.

"No further statement will be made by the club at this time."

No timescale has been put on the suspension.

City had earlier sent out a press release saying they had been notified by the FA that Flinders was banned "with immediate effect from all domestic club football for five first-team competitive fixtures".

It added it would make no further comment at that time "until receipt of further communication from the FA detailing the charge".

The rules and governance section of the FA's website relating to disciplinary matters says Flinders had contested the charge in June and requested a personal hearing.

The suspension is subject to appeal.