Liverpool have suffered a massive blow after defender Martin Skrtel has handed a three match suspension for stamping Manchester United’s David De Gea.

The incident took place in the dying moments of the match, which Louis van Gaal’s side sealed a 2-1 comfortable win. The Slovakian had denied to have deliberately stamped the stopper.

However, the Football Association’s (FA) Independent Regulatory Commission found the centre-back’s action violent.

Martin Skrtel suspended for three games after violent conduct charge found proven http://t.co/JsaTiByIdN pic.twitter.com/AbJf6FlWuB

— The FA (@FA) March 25, 2015

A statement on the FA’s official website read, ” Liverpool’s Martin Skrtel will serve a three match suspension with immediate effect after a charge of violent conduct against him was found proven.”

“The defender had denied the charge which related to an on-field incident involving Manchester United’s David de Gea in the 95th minute of Sunday’s game which was not seen by the match officials but caught on video.”

“However, an Independent Regulatory Commission hearing today found the charge proven,” it concluded.

He now joins Steven Gerrard in the players suspended for the Reds’ crucial fixtures. Brendan Rodgers will take his men to the Emirates to take on Arsenal in the Premier League clash after international break.

The duo will miss the clash against the Gunners and also the FA Cup replay against Blackburn Rovers as a part of the suspension.