FA Clamps Down On Player Behaviour

The Football Association has launched a new scheme aimed at clamping down on
poor player behaviour and harassment of referees.

The pilot scheme, which will be introduced at grass-roots level and is part
of a wider programme aimed at improving standards, effectively allows only
captains to talk to referees.

FA chief executive Brian Barwick commented: ‘It’s not going to change the
world but I am determined to make an impact – and I’ll do it.’

Spectators will also be expected to conform, not only players, as Barwick
seeks to clean up the game from the bottom to the top.

Not only will they will have to sign a memorandum of understanding about what
is expected of them, those that follow grass-roots football will have to remain
behind a roped-off area when a game is on.

Barwick also confirmed that the FA is still pushing strongly for the
introduction of goal-line technology.

‘Goal-line technology will ultimately be delivered and the great part of it
will be because of the work the FA has done.’