By Andrew Warshaw
November 6 – Mark Clattenburg, the referee at the centre of English football’s latest storm, is being stood down for a second successive round of Premier League action next weekend as an investigation continues into allegations that he used “inappropriate language” towards a Chelsea player during last month’s controversial 3-2 defeat by Manchester United.
Reports suggested Mike Riley, general manager of the referees’ association, the Professional Game Match Officials Limited (PGMOL), was happy for Clattenburg (pictured top), one of FIFA’s elite referees, to resume his domestic duties.
But after the pair held talks it was decided it was in Clattenburg’s best interests to sit out another series of games.
“PGMOL was fully prepared to appoint Mark to matches this weekend,” said Riley.
“However, having discussed this with him, we both consider that it is in Mark’s best interests that he has this week away from officiating duties while he prepares to help the FA (Football Association) and police with their enquiries.”
Chelsea insist the complaint was made following a thorough investigation but Clattenburg maintains he is innocent and neither of his assistants, nor the fourth official, are backing the club’s allegations.
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