Do you ever get the feeling that disciplinary panels are just going through the motions when they hold certain enquiries? Why does so much time and effort get spent on these ‘examinations’ when the outcome is so utterly predictable?
We are nearing the end of the West Ham points deduction appeal, but does anyone actually believe that all of a sudden they’ll be kicked out of the league via a retrospective points hit? Absolutely no chance. That would require, amongst other things, bravery by a governing association, and a willingness to stamp out all things underhand in the game.
And let’s face it, that isn’t going to happen.
West Ham should’ve been deducted points. They knowingly and wilfully broke the rules, and were extremely deceitful about hiding it. They knew what they were doing. But a decision today to dock them points would lead to further appeals, and it seems the authorities don’t want that. So I predict an increased fine for the Hammers, which they’ll pay with a smile with all that extra TV money.
The same is true of the racism that marred the Under 21s game on Sunday. I agree that a team shouldn’t be kicked out because of their fans, but there should be serious repercussions for the Serbian FA. We’re talking heavy fines, and four games behind closed doors.
And that’s not the end of the row. It seems a Serbian player is being accused of an extreme racist comment, and spitting. For the latter he should get three games. For the former, three months, if guilty. A fine and a slap on the wrist simply isn’t good enough.
But already the problem is being shelved. The disciplinary committee will not meet for three weeks, where they’ll discuss all the options and fine both FAs. If the player is found guilty, he’ll get a three match ban, the same as for some innocuous challenges seen week in week out.
It’s just all so predictable.
Meanwhile, Reyes continues to alienate all who want to sign him. This time he’s irritating Athletico Madrid by saying he wants to stay with their rivals…..who don’t want him. Be quiet Jose.
And finally, confirmation as if it was required – the Sun talk utter tripe.
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