Managers told to keep quiet over refs

Premier League managers who try to put pressure on referees before matches next season will face disciplinary action, the English Football Association (FA) announced on Tuesday.

Any boss making a derogatory remark about a match official that is seen as an attempt to influence his performance can expect punishment. The FA will also toughen up on the harassment of match officials by players.

The FA said in a statement: “Clubs are being advised that any media comments by managers, players or any other club officials relating to appointed match officials prior to a fixture will no longer be allowed – such pre-match comments will be deemed improper and dealt with accordingly.

“Post-match comments in relation to match officials and incidents are still permitted provided they are not personal in their nature, imply bias or attack the integrity of the officials in charge of the match, or in any other respect bring the game into disrepute.”

Last season, Everton boss David Moyes questioned Mike Riley’s appointment as referee for the FA Cup semi-final with Manchester United, saying it had been suggested to him that the official was a United supporter.

After the game, United manager Sir Alex Ferguson said Moyes’ remarks may have influenced Riley in a crucial decision when Danny Welbeck appeared to have been fouled in the area by Phil Jagielka. No spot-kick was awarded, and Everton went on to win a penalty shoot-out.

Under other rule changes, clubs can now be charged if three or more players surround the referee in a “confrontational manner”. Previously the charge required officials to report “harassment or intimidation” by three or more players.