Suarez ready for scrutiny after latest bite ban

Luis Suarez (C) poses with Barcelona sports director Andoni Zubizarreta (L) and vice-president Jordi Mestre during his official presentation at the Camp Nou stadium in Barcelona on August 19, 2014. (AFP/Quique Garcia)

MADRID: Barcelona striker Luis Suarez has said he needs to be more aware of his actions on the field after being handed a four-month ban for biting an opponent for the third time. Suarez won't be able to play a competitive game for Barca until October 25 due to his latest indiscretion when he clashed with Italian defender Giorgio Chiellini at the World Cup in June.

The former Liverpool striker said he is ready for the scrutiny that will await him on his return to action. "I am calm because it was already hard in England and I coped with it," the Uruguayan said in an interview on the Barcelona website. I am used to playing with this kind of pressure. Not so much pressure, but with a lot of eyes looking at you.

"People look at what you are doing and you have to get used to it, even more so now because I am part of the best team in the world so there will be a lot more eyes watching than before. Especially after what happened it will be even more so. You have to be wary, accept the responsibility and be intelligent."

Even without their star signing of the summer transfer window, Barca have made a 100 per cent start to their La Liga campaign under new boss Luis Enrique with victories over Elche and Villarreal. However, Suarez accepted that he has not taken kindly to his new role as a cheerleader from the sidelines.

"The truth is you suffer a lot. I have been suspended for many games and now that there are still a few remaining it is very difficult. You feel helpless because you can't do anything from afar, all you can do is talk to and cheer on your teammates. You have to accept that, be aware that is you role in these games and try to help my teammates."