Sir Alex Ferguson looks set to be charged over his criticism of referee Alan Wiley, despite issuing an apology at the weekend.
Upon watching his Manchester United side draw 2-2 with Sunderland, Ferguson questioned Wiley’s fitness and claimed that he was unable to keep up with the pace of the game.
He was subsequently asked to explain his remarks and could now be charged by the Football Association after the Daily Mail claimed that his apology “did not go far enough”.
In a statement released on Saturday, Ferguson said: “I intend to contact him [Wiley] personally after a trip overseas.
“My only intention in speaking publicly was to highlight what I believe to be a serious and important issue in the game.
“The fitness levels of referees must match the ever-increasing demands of the modern game, which I hope will now be properly addressed through the appropriate formal channels.”
He added: “I apologise to Mr Wiley for any personal embarrassment my remarks may have caused,”
Unfortunately for Ferguson, the apology has proved inadequate according to the Daily Mail and Alan Leighton, the general secretary of referee’s union Prospect.
“If the FA don’t satisfy us, we would have to take legal advice. Any issue of defamation would be against Sir Alex.” said Leighton.
“Saying a referee is not fit is actually questioning his integrity because a key component of refereeing is being fit.”
Leighton also claimed that Ferguson’s apology could actually have a negative impact on Wiley and other referees.
“What Sir Alex appears to be trying to do is say he has apologised and therefore that should be the end of the matter. But what he’s done is crank it up.
“Alan Wiley will find it very difficult in his next game. How long before the chant goes up “You’re not fit to referee”. Other referees will now come under the same spotlight.”
The 67 year old has until Tuesday to respond to the FA but with the “Respect” campaign now in full flow throughout all football leagues, a hefty punishment appears likely.
