Chris Wilder, Sheffield United manager, to face FA charge following outburst at linesman for eating during match

Introduction to this article
Sheffield United boss Chris Wilder is facing an FA charge over comments made about the referees and officiating during a recent Premier League match. His criticisms have landed him in hot water, and he could potentially be charged with bringing the game into disrepute.

Wilder’s Accusations and Confrontation

Wilder’s outrage stemmed from the performance of the officials during Sheffield United’s 3-2 defeat to Crystal Palace. He branded the referee’s performance as “ridiculous” and accused the linesman of showing “complete lack of respect” by eating a sandwich during his post-match complaint.

Threatened Complaint and Criticisms

The Sheffield United boss expressed frustration that Palace forward Jean-Philippe Mateta escaped a booking for a challenge that resulted in Blades’ keeper Ivo Grbic suffering a concussion. He alleged that the officials were prejudiced against his team and mentioned a conversation with a Premier League referee who warned him that every tight decision would go against them.

Potential Repercussions and Refereeing Criticism

It is unclear whether the assistant targeted in Wilder’s criticism was Dan Cook or Mark Scholes. The Sheffield United manager has threatened to complain directly to PGMOL chief Howard Webb about the perceived bias. He is not the only manager to slam the standard of refereeing in the Premier League this season, as former PGMOL boss Keith Hackett has also criticized the organization.