Blues taking things too far now.
Chelsea have released an official statement blasting the FA for not reducing midfielder Nemanja Matic’s four-game ban.
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The Serbian enforcer was dismissed during the clash with Burnley at the weekend for reacting to a tackle from Clarets striker Ashley Barnes, and will now face a four-match spell on the sidelines.
The club had appealed the ban, but was thrown out by the FA, and in response the club said on their official site:
“The Chelsea Football Club Board is extremely disappointed and frustrated that the FA Regulatory Commission has today decided not to reduce Nemanja Matic’s suspension to the maximum extent permitted under FA rules.
Chelsea FC challenged the standard three-match suspension which automatically followed the red card issued to Matic by referee Martin Atkinson during Saturday’s Premier League match against Burnley.
There has been universal condemnation of the reckless challenge made by Ashley Barnes on Matic and it is the club’s view that he has been unjustly punished with a two-match ban for his reaction to a career-threatening tackle.
It is Chelsea’s opinion that referees and the football authorities must do more to protect players at all levels of the game from dangerous challenges. This decision also clearly demonstrates a need for consistency and fairness in the disciplinary process.
The club awaits The FA’s written reasons, prior to commenting further.”
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