UEFA charge Chelsea, Drogba and Bosingwa over Barca ref bust-up

23 May 2009 00:23
Michael Ballack has escaped individual punishment for his aggressive behaviour in Chelsea's Champions League semi-final exit against Barcelona, but team-mates Jose Bosingwa and Didier Drogba, plus the club, have been charged by UEFA. Chelsea are accused over the improper conduct of their players and supporters while Drogba and Bosingwa face charges of insulting the referee with their post-match comments. A UEFA statement read: 'The club are charged with the improper conduct of their players and the throwing of missiles by their supporters, while Drogba and Bosingwa are accused of being in breach of the principles of sportsmanship by insulting the referee by making offensive comments. 'The club and the individuals concerned have been requested to file a statement by Friday, May 29. The UEFA control & disciplinary body will deal with the case on 17 June.' The announcement means that German midfielder Michael Ballack hasescaped individual punishment despite his aggressive protest towards Ovrebo after the Norwegian official had turned down the last of four penalty claims. Chelsea's temporary boss Guus Hiddink said that he did not regret the behavious of his players that night against Barcelona. The Dutchman today said: 'I don't regret anything about what has been done so far.' European football's governing body have taken three weeks to analyse and assess all the evidence surrounding the events that centred on Ovrebo, and are expected to hand out stiff punishments. Ovrebo is confronted by Chelsea players after turning down another strong penalty appeal.

Source: Daily_Mail