Gervinho and Alex Song Given Three-Match Bans

Arsenal’s Gervinho and Alex Song have been handed three-match bans by the FA for their conduct during Saturday’s draw with Newcastle United. Gervinho, 24, was given a straight red card for slapping Magpies midfielder Joey Barton. Barton was given a yellow card for his role in the melee, as he had initially dragged the Ivory Coast winger off the ground after an apparent dive from the Arsenal star. Because he…

August 16, 2011
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Ferguson Labells Javier Hernández’s Late Booking As An ‘Insult’.

Sir Alex Ferguson blamed Lee Probert, the referee, rather than fatigue or Cheik Tioté’s successful suppression of Wayne Rooney for his side’s failure to win at St James’ Park. The Manchester United manager saw Newcastle United survive a 90th-minute penalty claim when Javier Hernández was given a yellow card for simulation after appearing to fall over Danny Simpson’s outstretched leg. “It was a clear penalty,” said Ferguson. “I thought the…

April 20, 2011
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Why Do We Expect So Much From Players?

It’s amazing how many people want to tell you they expect better from a footballer. “Footballers are role models,” they’ll fume, “like it or not.” Can I choose “not”? By all means expect better from governments, or friends, or your spouse. But those who affect serial disappointment with the personal decisions of people whose job is kicking a ball seem more deserving of medical assistance than a polite ear. And…

November 11, 2010
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Home defeat a big ‘disappointment’ for Wenger

Arsene Wenger said he had cause for concern after Arsenal were beaten 1-0 at home to Newcastle. Andy Carroll’s header on the stroke of half-time meant the Gunners suffered their second defeat in front of their home fans this season, which also brought an end to a three-match winning run in the Premier League. “Our home form is a concern, because even against Birmingham and West Ham, they were struggling…

November 8, 2010
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