Manchester City midfielder Rodri has been fined £80,000 by the Football Association following remarks he made about referee Robert Jones after City’s 2-2 draw with Tottenham Hotspur on February 1.
Rodri, a Spain international, criticized the official during a post-match interview, claiming the referee had not acted “neutral” after Tottenham striker Dominic Solanke scored a controversial goal. City players felt Solanke had kicked through the leg of defender Marc Guehi in the build-up, but the goal was allowed to stand.As reported by BBC Sport on Monday.
“I know we win too much and people don’t want us to win, but the referee has to be neutral,” Rodri said. “It’s not fair because we work so hard. When everything is finished, you are frustrated.”
The FA charged him with improper conduct in a media interview, noting that his comments questioned the integrity of match officials. Rodri admitted the charge and submitted letters explaining the situation. In the first, he said his words were misunderstood; in the second, he acknowledged they were poorly chosen.
“I wish to make clear that I did not intend to imply bias or question the integrity of the match officials. I have always had, and continue to have, great respect for referees and the difficult job they undertake in a fast-moving and highly pressured environment,” he stated.
The FA’s independent regulatory commission ruled that a suspension was not warranted, but that a fine of £80,000 was appropriate.Truth Live News International learnt from Punch News.