The FA

Subterms

    Latest story

    213 Shares38 Views

    Premier League fines hit nearly £1MILLION after just 11 games with worst teams revealed as behaviour worsens

    by

    SO much for the Respect campaign — it is already starting to look more like Anarchy in the UK.Well, in English top-flight football, certainly.The biggest fine so far was £125,000 to Nottingham Forest after the spat with ChelseaCredit: PANottingham Forest owner Evangelos Marinakis is still serving a five-game banCredit: PAFor Premier League clubs to be approaching £1million in matchday misconduct fines before the Christmas decorations have gone up is the clearest possible signal that behaviour is heading in the wrong direction.Not just the players and managers are losing control, but assistant bosses, sporting directors and even one notoriously combustible owner.And with the most cluttered part of the entire season about to launch — clubs face as many as 12 matches in just five weeks across various competitions — the FA probably need to hire more staff for its fines department to cover for holiday absences.Whether it is behaviour falling, a response to perceived refereeing inadequacy, or that fines are an increasingly ineffective means of controlling tempers, is a question that may not be possible to answer.Read More on FootballBut what is clear is that almost every week brings another financial penalty or FA misconduct charge, with the current Prem aggregate standing at £917,500.The biggest single fine levied so far was the £125,000 Nottingham Forest were ordered to pay  after the spat sparked by Neco Williams’ shove on Chelsea’s Marc Cucurella in the latter stages of October’s  Stamford Bridge draw.Defender Cucurella was pushed into Blues boss Enzo Maresca, leading to a fracas involving both benches  and players.The melee also cost Chelsea £90,000,  half of which was after the Blues picked up six yellow cards from ref Chris Kavanagh.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSMaresca responded not with  any contrition, but praise. He said: “I like the way the team is fighting. I don’t see any problems with that.”Perhaps unsurprising then the Forest game was the second of THREE matches in which Chelsea picked up six bookings this term — costing them £150,000 in total.Premier League referee David Coote update after statement from UEFA and revelation that referees don’t get drug testedForest, in turn, really are walking a financial tightrope following their repeated offences. Last  season’s attack on VAR Stuart Attwell, ‘outing’ him as a Luton fan, cost them £750,000 — plus  a £40,000 fine for boss Nuno Espirito Santo and £24,000 for defender Williams.But it means that Forest started this season with their copybook already blotted.And that was before owner Evangelos Marinakis opted to spit towards officials in the  tunnel after their home loss by Fulham.Marinakis is still serving the five-game ban imposed by an independent commission and which was upheld on appeal.To be fair, so far at least, we have not witnessed the chaos that marred Fulham’s FA Cup defeat at Manchester United in 2023.Cottagers striker Aleksandar Mitrovic received an eight-game ban and the two clubs rattled up fines adding up to £180,000. PGMOL bosses want their officials to report any instances in which they are harassed or feel intimidated, on or off the pitch.More casesLeicester, Tottenham and West Ham have all been punished for collective misbehaviour by players.Southampton skipper Jack Stephens ended up with a five-match ban and £50,000 fine after his furious response to a clear red card against United.Man Utd coach Darren Fletcher and Wolves sporting director Matt Hobbs have both been unable to keep a lid on their frustrations with decisions they did not like.And there have been 14 instances of clubs receiving six or more cards in a match, with Bournemouth and United both guilty on two occasions, each offence adding a further £25,000 to the standard fine.No wonder that within the FA there is a feeling that a light needs to be shone on the snarling petulance being shown time and again on the pitch, from the dugout and even the directors’ box.Wembley chiefs know that what happens in the Premier League is reflected across the country on grassroots pitches, leading to a worrying shortfall in referees.It is an ugly look for the beautiful game and there is little reason to think it will not get worse.READ MORE SUN STORIESMaybe the punishments need to become even more severe, even leading to points deductions. That might, at last, make people think. More

    More stories

    • 250 Shares48 Views

      in Soccer

      England fans tear gassed & shoved against fences by ‘heavy handed’ riot cops before Greece clash as FA launch probe

      by

      ENGLAND fans were tear gassed and shoved against fences by riot cops before last night’s clash with Greece.The FA is now launching a probe into the Nations League match in Athens with officers accused of being heavy handed with Three Lions supporters.The Football Supporters Association accused Greek police of creating a ‘dangerous’ situationCredit: PARiot cops met England fans outside Athens Olympic Stadium on Thursday nightCredit: PAEngland fans eventually made it inside to watch the team win 3-0Credit: GettyAround 3,000 supporters had tickets for the game, but some were not inside Olympic Stadium by kickoff. The travelling crowd were held up by the officers wearing helmets, gas masks, and holding shields.England fan Jack Loftus said: “They [police] went to adjust the queue at the front to make it narrower and longer, and just did it with force.”They were pushing the crowd amongst the fence.”Read more on footballThe FA said: “We are aware that some of our fans had a difficult experience outside the ground and are obtaining more information on exactly what happened.”The Football Supporters’ Association accused Greek officers of of creating an “unjustifiably dangerous” situation.They said: “Unfortunately, once again, we are having to ask England supporters to send in their witness accounts to ourselves regarding the situation outside of the Athens Olympic Stadium.”To see the treatment of our fans by local police using shields and tear gas to do something as simple as rearrange a queue, is so incredibly frustrating.Most read in Football”On a night where we had a great result on the pitch, there is still clearly so much needed to do off it to ensure our supporters aren’t put in unjustifiably dangerous situations.”England trounced Greece 3-0 moving the Three Lions to the top of group B2 and avenging the shock 2-1 loss to the side back in October.ITV ‘do England stars dirty’ as live footage of national anthem singing leaves fans in hystericsBut the players faced a hostile atmosphere on the pitch with lasers shone in their face during the clash.Jude Bellingham and Jordan Pickford were hit in the face by the green lights, which plagued England throughout the first half.Despite Greek fans’ crooked efforts, England were able to keep their focus and earn an important win in Athens.An own goal from keeper Odysseas Vlachodimos, followed by Curtis Jones’ stunning backheel flick, in the second half saw the Three Lions win 3-0.England ratings vs Greece as Madueke and Jones steal the show after Kane benchedIT IS difficult to remember an England starting XI which, on paper at least, looked as totally underwhelming as this one.Yet manager-in-waiting Thomas Tuchel, presumably watching the game at his home in Bavaria, will have been hugely encouraged by this performance from what appeared to be a complete mish-mash of a team – and one which was awfully short of experience.Here’s how SunSport’s Tom Barclay rated England’s stars…Jordan Pickford – 8Back in after being dropped for Finland last month – and showed a good response. Great stop to deny Kostas Tsimikas at the near post and alive to danger throughout.Earned his first-ever booking in 72 England caps for time wasting in the first half.Kyle Walker – 7Captain in Harry Kane’s absence and passionately conveyed his side’s frustration to ref Daniel Siebert when Pickford was booked.Moved to centre-back after the break when Ezri Konsa went off.Marc Guehi – 7Another solid performance from the Crystal Palace man who you would think would be a first-choice starter for Thomas Tuchel when the German begins work.Ezri Konsa – 7One of several players targeted by a laser in the crowd, along with Pickford and Belligham.Limped off just before half-time and was replaced by Lewis Hall at the break.Rico Lewis – 7Filled in at left-back over newbie Hall, before moving to the right when the Newcastle man came on.Almost had his first England goal early in the second half but was denied by a fine stop from Hall’s club-mate Odysseas Vlachodimos.Curtis Jones – 9Sparkled on debut in the heart of midfield, not looking overawed in the slightest. Played deeper than he does for Liverpool, but in the same position where he shone for Lee Carsley in England’s triumphant Under-21 Euros last summer.Gorgeous backheel to cap his bow with the third goal.Conor Gallagher – 7Started brightly next to Jones, though gave the ball away a few times after the break. Booked for stopping a quick free-kick early on.Arrived just too late to poke in the rebound from Bellingham’s strike as it had already crossed the line for an own goal.Noni Madueke – 9A blistering first start from the Chelsea man who put real pressure on Bukayo Saka’s place with this performance.He took on his man at every opportunity, at pace, and had excellent end product too, setting up Watkins’ opener and a header for Bellingham which hit the post.Jude Bellingham – 8Some sublime touches and passes from the talisman, including a wonderful ball round the corner to release Madueke in the build-up to the opener.Seemed to thrive with pace all around him and killed off the game with his late strike which hit the post and bounced in off the keeper.Anthony Gordon – 7Provided a threat down the left with his pace and trickery, even if he was outshone by Madueke. A decent display but not one that demanded he start at left wing every game.Ollie Watkins – 7The surprise starter over Harry Kane. He took his early chance well, converting from the edge of the six-yard box.Could have had another when sent clean through but the ball got stuck under his feet.SubsLewis Hall (for Ezri Konsa half-time) – 7Came on at half-time for his debut and did not put a foot wrong.Harry Kane (for Ollie Watkins, 66) – 6Had a curling effort well stopped after exchanging passes with fellow sub Morgan Rogers.Morgan Rogers (for Anthony Gordon, 66) – 8Some exciting touches from the Villa debutant, including one to release Bellingham in the lead-up to the second goal.Jarrod Bowen (for Noni Madueke, 66) – 7Clever nutmeg to free Morgan Gibbs-White, who then teed up Jones.Morgan Gibbs-White (for Gallagher, 79) – 7Cutback for Jones was on the money.One fan said a queue was forcibly shoved to the sideCredit: PAEngland players like Jude Bellingham were hit with lasers during the matchCredit: RexMore to follow… For the latest news on this story keep checking back at The Sun OnlineThesun.co.uk is your go-to destination for the best celebrity news, real-life stories, jaw-dropping pictures and must-see video.Like us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/thesun and follow us from our main Twitter account at @TheSun. More

    • 238 Shares62 Views

      in Soccer

      England fans call for Thomas Tuchel to be SACKED before he starts job as FA accused of ‘bottling it’

      by

      ENGLAND fans called for Thomas Tuchel to be SACKED before he even starts his new job.And some even accused The FA of “bottling it” over the appointment.Lee Carsley inspired a 3-0 win in Greece in his penultimate match in interim chargeCredit: GettyFans reckon they do not need Thomas Tuchel to come in after allCredit: GettyTuchel, 51, accepted a £5million-a-year, 18-month contract to succeed Gareth Southgate as England manager with the objective of leading his new team to 2026 World Cup glory. But despite signing on the dotted line in October, the German will not take over until January.And that has seen a final farcical November international break with Lee Carsley in charge – and nine players dropping out for the two must-win clashes with Greece and Ireland.Carsley is set to return to his role as Under-21s boss when Tuchel comes in.READ MORE ENGLAND NEWSBut after inspiring his inexperienced side to a stylish, emphatic 3-0 win in Athens, plenty of supporters piled in on The FA’s decision to let Tuchel wait until the New Year to begin his reign. And instead, they want Carsley to stay in charge of the senior team permanently after all. One said: “Send Tuchel home and give Carsley the job!”Another wrote: “Is it too late to sack off Tuchel if Carsley has them scoring goals like that?”Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSA third added: “Lee Carsley is a genius isn’t he? Who needs Thomas Tuchel?”A fourth joked: “Who needs Tuchel?”Thomas Tuchel gives his first message to fans as England manager England ratings vs Greece as Madueke and Jones steal the show after Kane benchedIT IS difficult to remember an England starting XI which, on paper at least, looked as totally underwhelming as this one.Yet manager-in-waiting Thomas Tuchel, presumably watching the game at his home in Bavaria, will have been hugely encouraged by this performance from what appeared to be a complete mish-mash of a team – and one which was awfully short of experience.Here’s how SunSport’s Tom Barclay rated England’s stars…Jordan Pickford – 8Back in after being dropped for Finland last month – and showed a good response. Great stop to deny Kostas Tsimikas at the near post and alive to danger throughout.Earned his first-ever booking in 72 England caps for time wasting in the first half.Kyle Walker – 7Captain in Harry Kane’s absence and passionately conveyed his side’s frustration to ref Daniel Siebert when Pickford was booked.Moved to centre-back after the break when Ezri Konsa went off.Marc Guehi – 7Another solid performance from the Crystal Palace man who you would think would be a first-choice starter for Thomas Tuchel when the German begins work.Ezri Konsa – 7One of several players targeted by a laser in the crowd, along with Pickford and Belligham.Limped off just before half-time and was replaced by Lewis Hall at the break.Rico Lewis – 7Filled in at left-back over newbie Hall, before moving to the right when the Newcastle man came on.Almost had his first England goal early in the second half but was denied by a fine stop from Hall’s club-mate Odysseas Vlachodimos.Curtis Jones – 9Sparkled on debut in the heart of midfield, not looking overawed in the slightest. Played deeper than he does for Liverpool, but in the same position where he shone for Lee Carsley in England’s triumphant Under-21 Euros last summer.Gorgeous backheel to cap his bow with the third goal.Conor Gallagher – 7Started brightly next to Jones, though gave the ball away a few times after the break. Booked for stopping a quick free-kick early on.Arrived just too late to poke in the rebound from Bellingham’s strike as it had already crossed the line for an own goal.Noni Madueke – 9A blistering first start from the Chelsea man who put real pressure on Bukayo Saka’s place with this performance.He took on his man at every opportunity, at pace, and had excellent end product too, setting up Watkins’ opener and a header for Bellingham which hit the post.Jude Bellingham – 8Some sublime touches and passes from the talisman, including a wonderful ball round the corner to release Madueke in the build-up to the opener.Seemed to thrive with pace all around him and killed off the game with his late strike which hit the post and bounced in off the keeper.Anthony Gordon – 7Provided a threat down the left with his pace and trickery, even if he was outshone by Madueke. A decent display but not one that demanded he start at left wing every game.Ollie Watkins – 7The surprise starter over Harry Kane. He took his early chance well, converting from the edge of the six-yard box.Could have had another when sent clean through but the ball got stuck under his feet.SubsLewis Hall (for Ezri Konsa half-time) – 7Came on at half-time for his debut and did not put a foot wrong.Harry Kane (for Ollie Watkins, 66) – 6Had a curling effort well stopped after exchanging passes with fellow sub Morgan Rogers.Morgan Rogers (for Anthony Gordon, 66) – 8Some exciting touches from the Villa debutant, including one to release Bellingham in the lead-up to the second goal.Jarrod Bowen (for Noni Madueke, 66) – 7Clever nutmeg to free Morgan Gibbs-White, who then teed up Jones.Morgan Gibbs-White (for Gallagher, 79) – 7Cutback for Jones was on the money.A fifth quipped: “Enjoying watching England tonight. Tuchel out.”A sixth tweeted: “England with good patterns of play and attractive football. Yes defensively not well but if the football is this good who cares? Tuchel will be such a bad appointment.”A seventh blasted: “FA totally bottled it with Carsley. Taking England in the right direction.”And a final user simply typed: “Tuchel out!!”England’s starting XI featured senior heads in Jordan Pickford, Jude Bellingham and stand-in skipper Kyle Walker – with Harry Kane surprisingly benched.The remaining eight had just 78 caps between them.They got off on the wrong notes, with an awkward rendition of the national anthem leaving ITV viewers hilariously covering their ears.But the Three Lions were on song on the pitch as Noni Madueke teed up Ollie Watkins to break the deadlock inside seven minutes.England weathered the Greece storm and got the all-important second goal when Bellingham’s shot came back off the post and bounced in off the hosts’ goalkeeper Odysseas Vlachodimos.Curtis Jones rounded off his superb debut with a delicious, cheeky flick as England leapfrogged Greece at the top of their Nations League group ahead of the final fixture against the Irish at Wembley on Sunday.After his penultimate game in interim charge, Carsley said: “The most pleasing thing was the amount of control we had. We had a lot of possession and created a lot of chances.“It was brilliant for Ollie to get a goal. It’s important that if we want to put these players in a position to win the World Cup, they need to have as many experiences as they can, so it’s no slight on Harry. He’ll start the next game.READ MORE SUN STORIES”Harry understands that it’s important that other players experience that kind of experience we had tonight. He’s a great example to the rest of the players. I expect him to start on Sunday and play well.”Curtis was outstanding, played with quality and a matureness that we saw in the summer (at the Under-21 Euros). He showed he can adapt and he’s intelligent enough to know where the space is.”Curtis Jones’ sumptuous flick rounded off the 3-0 winCredit: GettyANDY DILLON: Thomas Tuchel has all the ingredients to become a classic England manager – tactical nous, drive and a tangled love lifeBy Andy DillonTHOMAS TUCHEL possesses all the ingredients to become a classic England manager.Tactical nous, drive, energy, experience – a tangled love life.English football should welcome back the most explosive, dynamic, charismatic and impossibly tall and gangly coach to have lit up the Premier League.Chelsea’s colourful former boss has been leading a settled life in Munich of late.Far enough away from ex-wife Sissi but close enough to see his two daughters.Walking his dog in the streets in the east of Germany’s most fashionable city, residing in the posh Bogenhausen area. Living relatively quietly with his Brazilian girlfriend.Tuchel is a vastly different personality to the man who led England quietly but assuredly to the brink of World Cups and European Championships.An excitable nature can make him hard to handle for those seeking calm and who like to impose their way on a manager they view very much as an underling.Read more on why Tuchel REALLY IS the best man for the England job More

    • 188 Shares58 Views

      in Soccer

      Walsall kit man and pitch-side announcer charged by FA for ‘acting in an improper manner’

      by

      WALSALL kitman Dave Joyce and pitch-side announcer Simon Hill have both been charged with misconduct by the FA.The pair allegedly acted in an “improper manner” in stoppage time during Walsall’s 1-1 draw against Crewe Alexandra in League Two on Saturday.A kitman and pitch-side announcer at Walsall have been charged by the FACredit: RexThe charges relate to an incident during the Saddlers’ League Two match against Crewe on SaturdayCredit: RexWith both sides pushing for a winner, a stoppage-time scuffle broke out when staff refused to give the ball back after it went out of play.Walsall kitman Joyce was sent off by referee Stephen Parkinson for the touchline melee.The ref then turned to book Crewe boss Lee Bell and Saddlers defender Liam Gordon.An FA statement read: “It’s alleged that David Joyce and Simon Hill acted in an improper manner around the 98th minute, and both of them have until November 18 to respond.”READ MORE FOOTBALL NEWSOmar Bogle opened the scoring for Crewe in the 66th minute when he crept in behind the Walsall defence to slot past Tommy Simkin.The home side equalised through Nathan Lowe with five minutes of normal time remaining before tempers flared in the closing stages.Tensions arose as both sides are pushing for promotion to League One, with Walsall sitting second and Crewe inside the play-off places.Mat Sadler’s side are three points adrift of league leaders Port Vale, but do have a game in hand.Most read in EFLA scuffle broke out at the end of Walsall’s 1-1 draw with CreweCredit: RexFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSWalsall will not be in action this weekend, though, after their home clash with Gillingham was postponed due to international call-ups.Meanwhile, Crewe are back in action on Saturday as they host a huge clash against Notts County, who currently sit third.Both teams are vying for promotion to League OneCredit: RexOmar Bogle opened the scoring for the visitors inside 66 minutesCredit: RexNathan Lowe equalised for Walsall before carnage broke outCredit: Rex More

    • 200 Shares69 Views

      in Soccer

      Tottenham blow as Rodrigo Bentancur banned ‘for SEVEN games’ after racist comment about team-mate Son Heung-min

      by

      RODRIGO BENTANCUR is understood to have been banned for seven domestic games for a racist comment about Tottenham team-mate Son Heung-min.The Uruguayan midfielder, 27, was charged by the FA in September for an “aggravated breach” and faced a ban of between six and 12 matches.Rodrigo Bentancur has been banned for seven games for comments about Son Heung-minCredit: RexBentancur apologised to captain Son after making the remarkCredit: GettyBentancur made the comment in an interview with Uruguayan TVCredit: .He has now learned the extent of his punishment which will mean he is unable to play until mid-December.Back in June, Bentancur suggested that all South Korean people “look the same” during a Uruguayan TV interview.A reporter asked “Can you get me the shirt from the Korean?” to which Bentancur replied: “Sonny?”The journalist then went on to say “Or any other champion,” before the midfielder responded: “Or any cousin of Sonny, they all look more or less the same.”READ MORE IN FOOTBALLHe subsequently apologised to Spurs team-mate Son, who is South Korea’s captain, and issued a statement on social media which read: “Sonny brother. I apologise to you for what happened, it was just a very bad joke.”You know I love you and I would never disrespect you or hurt you or anyone else! I love you, brother!”Son was quick to accept his apology and said: “He apologised straight afterwards when we [were on] holiday.”I was at home, I didn’t even realise what was going on. He just sent me a long message, and you could feel it was coming from his heart.Most read in FootballGames Rodrigo Bentancur is set to missPremier League unless statedMan City (A) – November 23Fulham (H) – December 1Bournemouth (A) – December 5Chelsea (H) – December 8Southampton (A) – December 15Man Utd (H) – December 19 (Carabao Cup)Liverpool (H) – December 22″When we came back to the training ground for pre-season, he was really sorry and he almost cried.”He apologised in public and personally as well. It felt like he was really sorry. We’re all human, we make mistakes, we learn from it. I love Rodrigo, I love him, I love him.Ange Postecoglou shows his disappointment after Tottenham loss to Ipswich Bentancur has scored one Premier League goal in 10 Premier League games this season”He knows he made a mistake but I have no problem at all. We move on as a team-mate, as a friend, as a brother. We move on together.”But Bentancur was charged by the FA who deemed the comment to include “a reference, whether express or implied, to nationality and/or race and/or ethnic origin”.The FA statement following Bentancur’s charge read: “Rodrigo Bentancur has been charged with an alleged breach of FA Rule E3 for misconduct in relation to a media interview.”It’s alleged that the Tottenham Hotspur midfielder has breached FA Rule E3.1 as he acted in an improper manner and/or used abusive and/or insulting words and/or brought the game into disrepute.”It’s further alleged that this constitutes an ‘aggravated breach’ which is defined in FA Rule E3.2, as it included a reference, whether express or implied, to nationality and/or race and/or ethnic origin.”SunSport has approached the FA for comment.The ban means Bentancur is set to miss Spurs’ Premier League games against Manchester City, Fulham, Bournemouth, Chelsea, Southampton and Liverpool – as well as their Carabao Cup quarter-final with Manchester United.READ MORE SUN STORIESHe will still be eligible to play in their Europa League games against Roma and Rangers.Bentancur has started seven of Spurs’ 11 Premier League games so far this season, scoring one goal.Premier League’s biggest bansJoey Barton – 13 months for placing bets on 1,260 matchesAbel Xavier – 12 months for testing positive for anabolic steroidSandro Tonali – 10 months for breaching FA’s betting rulesMark Bosnich – Nine months for testing positive for cocaineEric Cantona – Nine months for kung-fu kick on fanRio Ferdinand – Eight months for accidentally missing a scheduled drugs testIvan Toney – Eight months for 232 breaches of the FA’s betting lawsAdrian Mutu – Seven months for testing positive for cocaineKolo Toure – Six months for testing positive for a performance-enhancing substanceJoey Barton – 12 games for in-game three-man assault More

    • 250 Shares50 Views

      in Soccer

      David Coote expected to QUIT as referee before he’s sacked with X-rated Klopp rant to cost official more than £1MILLION

      by

      DAVID COOTE can kiss goodbye to more than £1MILLION after his astonishing X-rated rant at Jurgen Klopp.The under-fire Premier League referee faces ruin having been caught on video labelling Liverpool’s former boss a “German c***”.Referee David Coote was caught on video labelling ex-Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp a ‘German c***’Credit: XCoote is expected to quit as a referee before he’s sackedCredit: ReutersCoote unleashed an astonishing rant at ex-Liverpool boss KloppCredit: APRefs’ chiefs at the PGMOL are investigating but believe Coote will quit before he gets sacked.The FA have also launched their own probe. VAR specialist Coote, 42, was booted off Uefa’s matchlist for a Nations League game during the international break following his foul-mouthed remarks.Referencing Klopp’s nationality means Coote faces stiffer sanctions from a potential aggravated misconduct charge.Fifa are now looking into his part-time position with them.Read More on FootballPGMOL boss Howard Webb said: “We became aware of a video on social media that we are taking very seriously. We have instigated a full investigation.“David Coote has been suspended pending the outcome. There’s not much more I can say at this stage.”The sensational minute-long clip looks set to end Coote’s career and cost him a fortune in lost earnings.He stands to lose his job as a Select Group 1 referee that pays him at least £100,000 a year.Most read in FootballAnd the Nottinghamshire official has no hope of keeping a role within the PGMOL once he hangs up his whistle — like many of his peers.A source told SunSport: “He’s looking at more than a million quid down the drain there when you add it all up.”Premier League referee David Coote SUSPENDED as video appears to show him calling Klopp a ‘c***’ in anti-Liverpool rantA video was posted online on Monday showing Coote laying into Klopp and labelling him “f***ing arrogant”.He also said Liverpool were “s**t” in the footage, which was recorded several years ago.Coote has not denied the authenticity of the video but “does not recall” making it.The official has history with Klopp, who left the Kop giants in May.Shocking David Coote video in fullFirst videoFirst man: “What did you think of the Liverpool game earlier when you were fourth official?”Second man (allegedly Coote): “Erm Liverpool were s***.”First man: “What did you think of Jurgen Klopp?”Second man (allegedly Coote): “C***, absolute c***.”First man: “Why would you say that Jurgen Klopp is a c***?”Second man (allegedly Coote): “Erm, aside from having a right pop at me when I reffed them against Burnley in lockdown.”Then, he accused me of lying and then just had a right f***ing pop at me – and I’ve got no interest in speaking to somebody whose f***ing arrogant.”So I do my best not to speak to him. [James] Milner is alright, I get on with Milner.”First man: “James Milner, he gets on with James Milner.”Second man (allegedly Coote): “You can see me there with mask on.”First man: “Mask on, obviously.”Second man (allegedly Coote): “Yea Covid, got to be done. Social distancing right? We’re two meters apart.”First man: “We have to social distance.”Second man (allegedly Coote): “Yep, so but [exhales] my God. German c***, f*** me.”First man: “Long story short, Jurgen Klopp’s a c***, Liverpool are all f***ing b******s, we hate Scousers.”Second videoSecond man (allegedly Coote): “Right just to be clear, that f***ing last video cant go anywhere, seriously.”First man: He’s a Premier League referee, let’s not f***ing ruin his career.”Like let’s face we’re good blokes but we can’t ruin a bloke’s career. We’re not that bad. Also he’s a f***ing legend.”Second man (allegedly Coote): “So, yeah.”First man: “So lets not ruin his career.”They clashed after Liverpool’s 1-1 draw with Burnley at Anfield in July 2020 during the pandemic-hit season.The explosive comments cast serious doubt on his impartiality and suitability to referee in English football again.His remarks about Liverpool mean he could no longer referee their games with a shred of credibility.But neither can he take charge of matches involving their rivals in case his decisions indirectly affected them.And any club with a German boss or player could claim they would not receive fair treatment from Coote.READ MORE SUN STORIESThe man who filmed Coote’s anti-Liverpool rant has been named as former Nottinghamshire cricketer Ben Kitt.Kitt has also reportedly been suspended from his job. More

    • 213 Shares80 Views

      in Soccer

      David Coote facing highly unusual FA charge for use of word ‘German’ in furious Jurgen Klopp tirade

      by

      REFEREE David Coote may face an unusual FA charge after his furious tirade towards ex-Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp.The shocking clip, which appears to be at least two years old, emerged showing Coote, 42, branding Klopp a ” German c**t” and Liverpool as “s**t”.Referee David Coote may face an unusual FA charge due to “reference to nationality”Credit: GettyCoote may be charged after his furious tirade towards ex-Liverpool boss Jurgen KloppCredit: APDavid Coote admitted the viral video of him slamming Jurgen Klopp and Liverpool is authenticCredit: XWithin a couple of hours of it first being circulated publicly, it was announced the ref had been “suspended with immediate effect pending a full investigation” by the PGMOL.Now, according to The Times, the FA will make their own separate probe for the use of the word “German” and that could lead to an aggravated misconduct charge.That is because references to a person’s nationality can lead to stiffer sanctions.FA rules state that an “aggravated breach” includes a reference “whether express or implied, to race and/or colour and/or ethnic origin and/or nationality”.Read More on FootballAn FA spokesperson said: “We are aware of the matter, and we are investigating.”The clip could prove to be the end of Coote’s refereeing career.SunSport understands Coote “cannot recall” abusing Klopp in the video rant.But the Nottinghamshire official is not denying the accuracy of the footage.Most read in FootballIn the video circulated online, Coote also said: “Aside from having a right pop at me when I was refereeing them against Burnley in lockdown, he accused me of lying and then had a right f*****g pop of me.”I have no interest in speaking to someone who is f*****g arrogant. Moment Jurgen Klopp had penalty meltdown at David Coote before video that’s likely to KO referee’s careerShocking David Coote video in fullFirst videoFirst man: “What did you think of the Liverpool game earlier when you were fourth official?”Second man (allegedly Coote): “Erm Liverpool were s***.”First man: “What did you think of Jurgen Klopp?”Second man (allegedly Coote): “C***, absolute c***.”First man: “Why would you say that Jurgen Klopp is a c***?”Second man (allegedly Coote): “Erm, aside from having a right pop at me when I reffed them against Burnley in lockdown.”Then, he accused me of lying and then just had a right f***ing pop at me – and I’ve got no interest in speaking to somebody whose f***ing arrogant.”So I do my best not to speak to him. [James] Milner is alright, I get on with Milner.”First man: “James Milner, he gets on with James Milner.”Second man (allegedly Coote): “You can see me there with mask on.”First man: “Mask on, obviously.”Second man (allegedly Coote): “Yea Covid, got to be done. Social distancing right? We’re two meters apart.”First man: “We have to social distance.”Second man (allegedly Coote): “Yep, so but [exhales] my God. German c***, f*** me.”First man: “Long story short, Jurgen Klopp’s a c***, Liverpool are all f***ing b******s, we hate Scousers.”Second videoSecond man (allegedly Coote): “Right just to be clear, that f***ing last video cant go anywhere, seriously.”First man: He’s a Premier League referee, let’s not f***ing ruin his career.”Like let’s face we’re good blokes but we can’t ruin a bloke’s career. We’re not that bad. Also he’s a f***ing legend.”Second man (allegedly Coote): “So, yeah.”First man: “So lets not ruin his career.””So I do my best not to speak to him. James Milner is alright, I get on with him.”You can see me there with a ‘mask’ on. But, my God, German c**t, f**k me.” More

    • 275 Shares82 Views

      in Soccer

      Non-league star fills in as BBC commentator after he’s left out of FA Cup squad… and it goes exactly as you’d expect

      by

      A NON-LEAGUE star filled in as a commentator for the BBC after being left out of the FA Cup matchday squad.And it went exactly as you would expect when his side scored a dramatic equaliser.Guiseley’s equaliser prompted superb commentary from player Lucas OdunstonCredit: BBC SportGuiseley of the seventh-tier Northern Premier League Premier Division were handed a dream draw in the first round proper away at League One Stevenage.However, Lucas Odunston was not in the starting XI or among the substitutes for Mark Bower at the Lamex Stadium.So instead, the 24-year-old right-back headed up to the gantry and picked up the microphone for BBC Sport.And that prompted utterly wild scenes when the Lions found the net to make it 1-1 with just seven minutes to go on Saturday. READ MORE ON FA CUPFollowing a mix-up between the Stevenage defender and goalkeeper, the ball fell perfectly for Will Longbottom.And he made absolutely no mistake as he tapped into the empty net.That sparked chaos in the away end – and on the gantry.Because Odunston simply could not contain his excitement and joy.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSHe could be heard over the main commentator shouting: “Oh my God,” as the ball fell kindly for Longbottom.Then after some brilliant inaudible commentary, Odunston added: “Yeahhhh!!” before some more crazy indiscernible screaming. I broke FA Cup record against Man Utd in final.. 20 years later I’m playing for non-league side in qualifying roundOdunston then regained an ounce of composure to bellow: “Get in there!”Oh my God.”Ohhhh, ohhhhh. Can I go on the pitch, can I go on the pitch?”The commentator then replied: “If you want to go my friend, you go.”Look at the scenes here at the Lamex Stadium.”This competition is magic because it produces moments like this.”The clip got shared on X by BBC Sport and went viral – with dozens of fans loving the wonderful reactions from a jubilant Odunston. Why FA Cup changes are GOOD NEWSBy Martin LiptonTHE FA and Premier League should have done the deal to scrap FA Cup replays years ago.No doubt traditionalists will moan but it is right that the competition has finally been brought into the 21st century.Ending replays will bring extra sharpness and excitement to the ties, with the knowledge that there will be a winner, whether in 90 minutes, extra-time or penalties.If big guns have a bad day, they are more likely to pay the price. Replays after draws give them a fall-back they do not deserve.Giving the FA Cup total and absolute priority over four weekends – and ensuring there is no competing match on the day of the Final – will enhance the profile of a competition that was in danger of falling out of the spotlight.And as long as the FA ensures a better split of the prize money fund, weighting it more towards the earlier rounds, and potentially a similar move with  TV match money, there should be few losers.Read more on the FA Cup.One said: “This is the kind of energy we need on commentary! Lucas is living his best life! “When life gives you lemons, you become a commentator! Lucas is bringing the vibes!”Another wrote: “Classic commentary gold!”A third added: “That’s a classic! Love seeing players getting involved even off the pitch! Lucas is bringing the energy!”And a final user replied: “Magic of the FA Cup.”However, despite the special scenes following the equaliser, the day did end in bittersweet fashion.READ MORE SUN STORIESThat is because Guiseley did manage a draw at Stevenage.But with replays scrapped, it went to extra-time and then penalties, where the third-tier Boro nicked it 5-4 in the shootout to book their spot in the second-round draw. The right-back wanted to get on the pitch to celebrate with his team-matesCredit: BBC SportWho are these famous footballers? More

    • 250 Shares149 Views

      in Soccer

      Ian Holloway at centre of FA probe over possible breach of agent regulations just seven days after landing Swindon job

      by

      IAN HOLLOWAY and Swindon are facing an FA investigation over a  possible breach of agent regulations following his surprise appointment as manager last weekend.In an interview on Town’s YouTube channel on Sunday, Ollie revealed he took the job without signing a contract with the agent who brought him to the club.Ian Holloway – nicknamed Ollie – has taken charge of Swindon TownCredit: PAHe admitted: “It’s only late last night I decided to get an agent, arranged to meet him and before you know it I’m here.“It’s completely mental to me but I’m delighted.“I arranged to meet an agent I haven’t signed anything with yet because I wanted to get back on.“If it wasn’t for that fella I’d still be sat at home.”READ MORE IN FOOTBALLHis admission would appear to be a breach of rule 4.1 of the FA’s Football Agent Regulations.It states: “An FA Registered Football Agent may only perform Football Agent Services for a Player, Coach or Club after having entered into a Representation Agreement with that Player, Coach or Club.”Holloway’s first game as a manager in four years will be tomorrow’s FA Cup first-round home tie against Colchester.The 61-year-old watched last Saturday’s 1-1 draw with Gillingham from the stands after succeeding the sacked Mark Kennedy.Most read in EFLBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSBut Ollie could not resist coming down to the touchline to shout instructions to his new players during the second half.Swindon had been reduced to 10 men in just the ninth minute when Grant Hall was sent off.Forgotten ex-Rangers star Nnamdi Ofoborth scores first goal since doctors said he was ‘lucky to still be here’Timothee Dieng subsequently gave Gills the lead, before Harry Smith’s 93rd minute equaliser earned a point for the home side.Holloway, Swindon and the agent could all face disciplinary action if the FA press charges.The FA declined to comment. More