F.A. Justice On The Line

Most people think that in the aftermath of the flare-up between Arsenal and Chelsea players in the closing stages of an otherwise outstanding Carling Cup final, their lordships at The Football Association will, following a period designed to convey the impression of earnest and careful consideration, throw the book at those concerned.

In which case, it may be worth enquiring as to what sanctions will be exercised against the linesman whose distinguished contribution to that game began with permitting an offside goal by Drogba and ended with a case of mistaken identity when he persuaded referee Howard Webb to red card Emmanuel Adebayor for an offence which in reality was committed by another player entirely – as Chelsea’s left back subsequently confirmed.

Or does the F.A. currently favour some kind of diplomatic immunity for officials – even the incompetent ones?