Mourinho charged for “campaign” remark
Chelsea boss Jose Mourinho has been charged by the Football Association after his complaints of a “campaign” to influence refereeing decisions against his side.
Mourinho’s remarks came after Cesc Fabregas was booked for diving during the 1-1 draw with Southampton on 28 December.
The Blues manager felt his side should have been awarded a penalty, and claimed pressure from other managers and the media were affecting officials’ decisions.
In his press conference, he said: “I think clearly it’s the result of something that looks like a campaign.
“You have a penalty and probably win the game, but you don’t get the penalty and you get the yellow card.
“We’ve had bad yellow cards [for alleged simulation]. In the last couple of weeks, Filipe Luis and Eden Hazard could be now with broken legs.
“These are the most crucial things in the last couple of weeks and you are talking to me about simulation.”
Mourinho has been charged with misconduct and has until 6pm on Tuesday 13 January to respond.
An FA statement added: “It is alleged his remarks constitute improper conduct in that they allege and/or imply bias on the part of a referee or referees and/or bring the game into disrepute.”
Mourinho has also been issued with a formal warning for comments ahead of Chelsea’s 2-0 win at Stoke on 22 December.
“Having sought his observations on this matter, the FA has decided not to bring a disciplinary charge and instead issued him with a formal warning.
“The FA prohibits participants from making any pre-match media comments, including comments of a positive nature concerning the appointed match officials for a particular fixture.”
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