|
Ref switched for FA Cup final
24/04/2006 17:57 - (SA)
London - Referee Mike Dean has lost his
place at the FA Cup final to Alan Wiley over fears that he could
have faced pressure from Liverpool fans living near his
Merseyside home.
The switch was decided by the Football Association after
Liverpool lined up a final on May 13 in Cardiff against West Ham
United following last weekend's semi-finals.
The FA said in a statement that it "has complete faith in
Mike Dean's refereeing ability, integrity and impartiality.
"However, given the huge interest in all aspects of The FA
Cup final, the fact that he is from the Wirral might lead to
comment and debate which would place him under undue additional
pressure.
"The decision has been taken with the best interests of Mike
Dean and the competition in mind."
|
Rugby
