Chelsea and Everton charged with failing to control players by The FA
After the altercation in the Premier League match between Chelsea and Everton which involved several players, The FA have charged both clubs for ‘failing to ensure their players conducted themselves in an orderly fashion and/or refrained from provocative behaviour’ at Stamford Bridge. The incident happened in the 86th minute in Chelsea’s 1-0 win over the Merseyside club.
The focal point of the incident that sparked off a row was Branislav Ivanovic grabbing James McCarthy by the throat and attempting to headbutt him. But Ivanovic will not receive any retrospective punishment.
Since the incident wasn’t seen by the on-field referee, a three-man panel of former elite referees reviewed the case. There was no FA charge as they did not think his offence was worth a red card.
Both clubs have time to respond to the charge and must do so before 6 PM on 17 February.
Ivanovic should have been sent off: Roberto Martinez
Everton boss Martinez was far from happy with the referee’s decision and was positive that it was a red card for Chelsea’s right back.
“When you look at the images of Ivanovic’s behaviour, that shouldn’t be allowed,” he said.
“First of all, he grabs James McCarthy around his neck in a forceful manner, then he puts his head against him when McCarthy never reacted one single bit.
“If you want to be fair with the laws, that’s a red card.”