Borussia Monchengladbach star Marcus Thuram has been given a five match ban in the Bundesliga.

Thuram spit at an opponent during his team's game against Hoffenheim on Saturday.

The German FA announced the punishment, which also includes a hefty fine.

The 23-year-old got his marching orders in the 78th minute of the game, which his team lost 2-1.

He spat at Stefan Posch, and was given the severe punishment, even though he claims it was accidental.

Thuram has been linked to Manchester City and Real Madrid in recent months.

Gladbach sporting director Max Eberl on Sunday had said: "Marcus is devestated and has assured me that he did not purposely spit at Stefan Posch.

"He told me that during a dispute with Stefan Posch, he had unintentionally spat after cursing several times in French in the heat of the moment."