Sunderland have confirmed that they will use the FA’s new disciplinary rules to appeal against Gary Breen’s sending off.
The skipper was dismissed during last night’s 1-0 away loss to Sheffield United, but under the new rules, the club have until 12 noon today to give notice of their intention to appeal to the FA. They then have until 12 noon on Thursday (30 Sept) to submit their evidence.
SAFC.com say that the hearing is likely to take place next Tuesday, 5th October.
The alleged incident involved Breen and Blades forward Andy Gray – who was also sent off – and both managers seem bewildered by the bookings. The referee overseeing it all was Mike Dean, who officiated during the recent West Brom vs Fulham match which saw bookings and unrest on the pitch.
Mick McCarthy said, “I really don’t know why they were sent off. The two guys were pushing a bit. One tried to get a bit of space to get in a header, the other tried to deny him.
“Both said there were no arms raised. I didn’t see anyone holding their chins or any claret knocking about as they were coming off. The assistant referee must have been 40 or 50 yards away.
“They both should have been given a warning. He should have told them to stop pushing and shoving and get on with the game. It shouldn’t be the talking point, should it?
“Yes, I’m going to appeal. It’s not a case of the manager having rose-coloured spectacles here. No-one thought it was a sending off.”
Blades gaffer Neil Warnock confirmed that he agreed with Mick McCarthy that he disagreed with the referee’s decision.
“Andy (Gray) is adamant nothing much happened, just a bit of pushing and shoving. Nobody saw what happened but it now leaves two people facing automatic three-match bans.
“It is all down to a reserve linesman brought in at the last minute – quite scandalous.”
Sheffield United have also confirmed that they will appeal Gray’s dismissal.
