DFB launches investigation into Lehmann-Subotic incident

Germany’s football federation has opened an investigation into Stuttgart goalkeeper Jens Lehmann and Borussia Dortmund defender Neven Subotic after they appeared to elbow each other during a weekend match.

The federation, or DFB, said Tuesday that a committee would investigate suspicions of grossly unsporting behavior by both players.

The DFB said television footage from Saturday’s 1-1 draw suggested that Lehmann deliberately elbowed Subotic in the back of the head, and that the defender then hit back and caught Lehmann’s face.

The match referee said he didn’t seen either incident. Both players have been asked to respond quickly to the accusations.