Ferguson faces the possibility of a heavy fine or a probable ban from the Football Association. Following the match against Sunderland, Ferguson had expressed his views saying that the referees’ fitness did not quite match the pace of the game. He later apologized for his comments and felt sorry for any personal embarrassment that the comment may have caused to Wiley. He reiterated that he wanted to highlight a grave and important issue through his comments, which has become a part of the game. Ferguson has had a history of inappropriate conduct and has faced charges for incidents which involve referees.

The head of officials’ union Prospect, Alan Leighton felt that Ferguson’s apology was half hearted and thought that the comment made against Wiley was an attack on his professionalism which was totally unwarranted. He also admitted that it was very important not to have let this comment go unchecked as this would have sent the wrong message to the manager of the other clubs. It would have given them the wrong impression that even they could make such comments which would have brought the game into disrepute.

Emmanuel Adebayor of Manchester City has been charged for improper conduct by the Football association for running the length of the pitch as he celebrated after scoring in front of the Arsenal fans. The striker faces a three match suspension for violent conduct in the match which Manchester City won 4-2. Adebayor stamped on Robin van Persie who happens to be his former teammate and the Duthchman had to get a treatment for the cut to his face. Adebayor did apologize for his actions later on.

Mark Hughes, the Manchester City boss though backed Adebayor saying that the star should not be reprimanded for celebrating his goal and confirmed that the club is going to fight the improper conduct charge. The club however has decided against fighting the striker’s violent conduct charge which is certain to make Adebayor miss the games with Man U and Fulham. Hughes pointed out the huge amount of abuse that his £25m summer signing from Arsenal had to endure and is resolute to take a stance against it. Hughes opines that Adebayor’s action was a result of emotion which cannot be taken out of the game. He pointed that the strikers celebration was an outcome of the anger and the amount of criticism that he was forced to endure during the game.

After the match, Adebayor confirmed that he allowed his emotions to get the better of him and expressed regret for his action. He was being insulted by the Arsenal fan even in the warm up matches. Sports Minister Gerry Sutcliffe hinted at possible point penalties for clubs to ensure that there is no further behavioral breach.