Match officials are on a hiding to nothing as the FA fails them again

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Football Today

·4 March 2025

Match officials are on a hiding to nothing as the FA fails them again

The Football Association (FA) has published the written reasons why Liverpool manager Arne Slot was handed a two-game touchline ban for his recent dismissal.

Slot was also given a £70,000 fine after being red-carded by referee Michael Oliver for an expletive-laden rant following the game at Everton.

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Judging by the FA’s report on the incident, Oliver and his colleagues have every reason to ask why the governing body is failing them.

The FA should have made an example of foul-mouthed Liverpool boss

Slot denied swearing at Oliver, stating in a submission that he had said, ‘If we don’t win the league, I will have you to thank for that.’

Given that no one outside of the stars of Downton Abbey speaks like that, it’s little wonder the three-person commission refused to believe him.

Slot admitted to acting improperly and also directing expletives towards an assistant referee after the end of the game at Goodison Park.

The FA’s report spoke of Slot being a ‘role model’ and argued his actions ‘did not provide the positive image of the game that the governing bodies strive for’.

All of which begs the question – why on earth do they think what amounts to a gentle slap on the wrist is sufficient punishment?

There is a general lack of respect for officials at all levels in football. The FA had a golden opportunity to make an example of Slot and failed in their duty to the sport.

Until they grow a backbone, match officials will continue to be abused by morons who know they can get away with it.

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