Thatcher set to escape charge
Ben Thatcher, the Manchester City defender, is likely to escape a police charge of assault for his elbow on Pedro Mendes, the Portsmouth midfield player, but he may receive a police caution (James Ducker writes). Greater Manchester Police launched an investigation into Thatcher’s challenge on Mendes during the goalless draw at the City of Manchester Stadium ten days ago, but, mindful of the punishment of a six-match ban and a fine of six weeks’ wages that Thatcher has been given by his club and the threat of action from the FA, officers presiding over the case are not thought to deem it in the public interest to issue criminal charges.
Three sent to jail
David Partridge, the Wales defender, and two of his Bristol City team-mates were jailed yesterday for taking part in a brawl outside a nightclub in the city last October. Partridge was jailed for two months for affray and causing actual bodily harm. Steve Brooker and Bradley Orr were each jailed for 28 days for affray. Orr was sent off for fighting with Louis Carey, his team-mate, in a League One match against Northampton Town on Tuesday.
Uefa gets tough
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Uefa wants match officials to crack down on players who dispute or try to influence a referee’s decision by, for example, waving imaginary cards. European football’s governing body said last night that it is “determined to stop dissent and harassment of referees” and has instructed officials to take immediate action by booking players.