SHARKS were left ‘extremely disappointed’ after a 14-week ban was imposed on centre Lee Thomas on Tuesday.

The ruling is a huge blow to Sale ahead of their crucial European Challenge Cup semi-final against Bath tomorrow.

Thomas was cited for allegedly striking Bath flyhalf Shaun Berne, who lost three teeth during a league tie between the two sides at Edgeley Park on March 28.

Thomas has the right to appeal against the suspension. However, if it remains unchallenged the 22-year-old will not be available to play until October 18.

But the ban will not distract Sharks from their mission to lift the European trophy, according to head coach Kingsley Jones.

He said: "It’s not personal between our players and Bath players, it is a game like any other. We respect Bath, we want to beat Bath.

"We’ve got to stay focused at this critical stage in the season – we don’t want to be side-tracked by anything.

"The performance of the 15 or 22 guys on Saturday is more important than anything else."

Thomas was handed the lengthy ban after being found guilty of ‘conduct which is prejudicial to the interests of the Union or the game’ at a Rugby Football Union disciplinary hearing.

Sharks’ chief executive, James Jennings, said: "Sale Sharks are extremely disappointed with the outcome of the disciplinary hearing on Lee Thomas.

"The written decision of the RFU Disciplinary Panel will be issued in the next few days and once we are in receipt of the paperwork, the club, on behalf of Lee Thomas, will review our position."

The ban limits further Sharks coaches’ options in the backs. They are without fullback/winger Rory Lamont (facial fractures), centre Rudi Keil (knee) and winger Steve Hanley (back). Winger Selorm Kuadey is not registered to play in the Challenge Cup.

Centre Luke McAlister is expected to be fit for the match at the Recreation Ground on Saturday, after missing last week’s game against Newcastle due to a knee problem.

Sharks are hoping to lift the trophy for a third time, and secure a Heineken Cup spot next season, as competition for a place in the Premiership top four is fierce.

Sale’s director of rugby, Philippe Saint-Andre, added: "Bath are a good team but it is a semi-final and anything can happen.

"We will try to play our best and try to win."

Bath, who are currently second in the Premiership, have only lost once at home this season, against London Wasps.

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