Source: Daily_Mail
Wiley reveals torment over Fergie jibe but vows not to sue Man United boss
Alan Wiley has decided against suing Sir Alex Ferguson for defamation but today expressed his 'bitter disappointment' with the Manchester United manager's attack on his fitness. Ferguson was given a four-match touchline ban, two of them suspended, and a £20,000 fine by the FA for saying Wiley 'just wasn't fit enough' to officiate in United's 2-2 draw with Sunderland in October. The United manager has apologised for his remarks and referees' union Prospect confirmed Wiley would not be pursuing a case for defamation against Ferguson. Outburst: Sir Alex Ferguson said referee Alan Wiley was not fit enough to officiate Delay means Ferguson will still be in the dugout when Man United face EvertonFergie reveals dealing with pampered players is worst part of being the bossFerguson's two-match touchline ban will not faze Man United, says VidicA full Alex Ferguson retraction would end Alan Wiley row says referees union Wiley said: 'Although I was bitterly disappointed about the personalattack on me I want to put this behind me and continue to concentrateon my refereeing.'Prospect has also written to the FA to seek greater support forreferees and calling for stronger action if there are similar attacksin the future. Yellow card: Wiley callls for end to Fergie row Prospect national secretary Alan Leighton said: 'Unwarranted anduntrue attacks on referees damage the hard-earned reputation of ourmembers, call into question their integrity and damage the image of thegame by suggesting that the referees are incapable of doing their job. 'Referees understand and accept that their decisions will be questioned, but personal attacks are unacceptable." Leighton also defended Prospect against criticism that it had chose this case to become very publicly involved. He added: 'Prospect adopted a policy when we started representingreferees four years ago that we would not make public comment on everycriticism made by ex-referees or managers. 'The seriousness of the recent attack forced the union to departfrom that policy. We will, however, continue to defend members wheretheir professionalism is publicly questioned.' Delay means Ferguson will still be in the dugout when Man United face EvertonFergie reveals dealing with pampered players is worst part of being the bossFerguson's two-match touchline ban will not faze Man United, says VidicA full Alex Ferguson retraction would end Alan Wiley row says referees union Explore more:People:Alex Ferguson