FA stand by Cahill ban
The Football Association have defended their disciplinary process in the wake of David Moyes’ stinging attack.
Moyes is fuming at the loss of key midfielder Tim Cahill from Everton’s next three games after the Australian was found guilty of violent conduct by an FA disciplinary panel yesterday.
Soho Square stepped in once match referee Howard Webb admitted in his report that he had not seen the incident between Cahill and Celestine Babayaro during Sunday’s Premiership match against Newcastle at Goodison Park.
However, Moyes claims he has proof Webb did see the clash, although it was hardly likely the FA were going to do anything but accept the word of the referee.
“The referee said he did not see what happened in that particular incident,” said an FA spokesman.
“We have to respect that because the referee is the final arbiter of the game.”
Moyes is equally upset the new fast-track disciplinary system, designed to speed up the banning process, prevented the club mounting an effective defence.
However, the FA have pointed out the system was agreed during the summer by both the Premier League and Professional Footballers’ Association.
“The disciplinary system we now use was signed up to by the Premier League and PFA after widespread consultation,” added the spokesman.
“Furthermore, the commission is an independent commission which includes representation from an ex-player. They are the ones who make the decision, not the FA or its compliance unit.”
