LONDON – The head of English football’s players union on Tuesday questioned the decision to charge Wayne Rooney over his foul-mouthed outburst at a television camera after scoring a hat-trick. Rooney faces a two-match ban unless he successfully appeals against charges of using abusive language during the 4-2 victory at Upton Park on Saturday.
However Professional Footballers’ Association chief executive Gordon Taylor questioned whether Rooney deserved to be punished, suggesting that swearing was an accepted part of football. “Whilst the use of foul and abusive language is not condoned, there is an acceptance by all parties within the game that ‘industrial language’ is commonly used,” Taylor said in a statement.
“It becomes an issue when directed towards match officials. However, when used in a spontaneous way in celebration or frustration then it is not normally expected to merit a sanction. “If sanctions are to be imposed in such circumstances then this has to be done in a balanced and consistent manner, and participants made aware of this fundamental change in approach.”
Rooney risks missing out on United’s crunch FA Cup semi-final against Manchester City on April 16 if he is banned. However the PFA said the charge was “unprecedented” and would set a “dangerous precedent” if upheld, leading to more players being sent off. “I think it puts them (the FA) in a difficult position if they do set a precedent that using foul and abusive language on the field of play is to be treated in this way,” PFA deputy chief executive John Bramhall said.
“Then it could lead to a very serious situation with regards to our members, who in previous seasons have been working with an acceptance level, a tolerance level which clearly has now been changed.”
