I think it is only natural to compare and contrast the nature of Haidara’s comments with those that have come out of Wigan, with their first instinct to defend their player at all costs rather than concern for a potential serious injury.
The FA appear to be living in a pre-television age and don’t realise just how foolish they look, when everybody (who isn’t on the Wigan payroll) can see what a travesty this is and yet they still cling to a cobbled together rule that is as clueless as they are.
As for the FA, you should be utterly ashamed at your performance in this matter. It is really simple sometimes – it’s just a question of doing what is right – that is justice.
After having watched one half of The Proclaimers give the FA’s reasoning for not taking any action against Wigan’s young debutant, I can’t help but feel a dangerous precedent has been set.
Whilst we understand that the current procedures give the FA limited options, it cannot be correct that the most serious offences – those which have the potential to cause another player serious harm – can go unpunished.
So Dave Whelan is harking for days of old is he; “It was a fair tackle…he got the ball…I don’t think he should get punished at all” etc etc. You don’t think you need to apologise? “No I don’t think so”.
There is a precedent very close to home as Everton’s Victor Anichebe successfully sued Newcastle United for a six figure sum after Kevin Nolan caused him serious injury with a bad tackle.
‘Gai Assulin was stretchered off in injury time with his right leg in a brace, following a wild challenge by Callum McManaman, which caused some friction between the two benches.’
The incident has provoked much debate and very disappointing to see somebody like Roberto Martinez defending his player at all costs. As for the Wigan Chairman Dave Whelan, we maybe expected no better.
The Sky microphone picks up the cry of pain as soon as Haidara’s knee is smashed into. Disgusting. Perhaps even worse is the hero treatment afforded to the little thug as he leaves the pitch. A standing ovation from their fans and firm handshakes all round from his manager and the other clown stood next to him.