Alex Ferguson has decided to appeal the improper conduct charge levied against him by the Enlgish FA. That charge came down yesterday, an apparent reaction to Ferguson's comments to Manchester United's television channel calling into question the impartiality of Martin Atkinson. Atkinson officiated Manchester United's 2-1 loss at Stamford Bridge, after which Ferguson said he "feared the worst" when he initially learned of Atkinson's appointment.
Alex Ferguson Will Appeal English FA’s Improper Conduct Charge
Atkinson called for a penalty late in Tuesday's match after Chris Smalling fouled Yuri Zhurkov. Frank Lampard's conversion high into Edwin van der Sar's next gave Chelsea three points and prolonged United' winless streak at Stamford Bridge, one that extends back to 2002.
Atkinson also officiated Manchester United's previous trip to Chelsea, a match that was decided on a late John Terry goal. United and Ferguson criticized Atkinson for failing to call fouls on Chelsea in the led-up to the goal.
If the charges against Ferguson are upheld, he is likely to received a fine, a touchline ban, or both. Ferguson’s appeal is likely to center on the interpretation of his words as well as their intended severity, though it’s too bad somebody doesn’t question why the FA is wasting their time with comments made to a club’s television outlet. If the FA is concerned that such comments undermine official’s authority, they’re probably under a gross misconception as to who seriously we weight MUTV content.
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