Wigan Athletic Football Club News

• Nickname:Latics
• Founded:1932
• Manager:Roberto Martinez

• Ground:JJB Stadium
• Capacity:25,000

Jewell blast earns FA charge

15 Mar 2007 - 17:22:01

Click To Enlarge

Wigan Athletic manager Paul Jewell has been charged with improper conduct and/or bringing the game into disrepute by the Football Association.

The Latics chief has been hit with the charge following his verbal outburst at referee Phil Dowd last month.

Jewell slammed the performance of the official following Wigan's 2-1 defeat by Arsenal at the Emirates Stadium.

The Wigan manager was furious that Dowd had failed to award his side a penalty for a foul on Emile Heskey seconds before the Gunners equalised through a Fitz Hall own goal.

Arsenal went on to win the match as Tomas Rosicky snatched victory with an 85th minute winner.

Jewell, who rushed on to the pitch at the final whistle to confront the official, had blasted: "Dowd has cost our team the points - it could cost us £50million."

The former Bradford City and Sheffield Wednesday manager also alleged that the referee swore at his players during the game, adding: "I don't mind because it's a man's game - but then he's telling me that I'll be sent into the stands for having a go at him. It can't all be one-way.

"If he wants to take my conduct to the authorities, then I'll take his language to my players to the authorities as well.

"I'm sure I'll have to explain my comments to the Football Association but, if I do, I'll just show them a video of the game."

Jewell has until March 30 to respond to the charge.