Manchester United first-team coach, Darren Fletcher, has been charged with misconduct by the Football Association (FA) following an angry rant in the tunnel. The charge comes as a result of his actions towards match officials during last Saturday's 2-1 victory over Brentford at Old Trafford.
The controversy unfolded right at the end of the first half when referee Samuel Barrott, officiating a United fixture for the first time, instructed Matthijs de Ligt to leave the field due to an earlier head injury. De Ligt had collided with Brentford striker Kevin Schade's knee earlier in the first half, resulting in visible blood on his face.
Despite having already received medical attention once, Barrott insisted that De Ligt leave for further treatment. This decision came at a crucial moment as Manchester United was about to defend a corner from Brentford.
Brentford takes advantage
As De Ligt left the field under protest, Ethan Pinnock seized this opportunity and headed home to put Brentford ahead. The goal sparked outrage among members of Manchester United’s coaching staff and players alike.
De Ligt expressed his fury as he watched helplessly from off-pitch while Andre Onana failed to stop Pinnock’s header. Manager Erik ten Hag and assistant Ruud van Nistelrooy were also visibly upset by this turn of events and were both cautioned for their protests. Fletcher was particularly incensed by these developments and vented his frustration on fourth official Gavin Ward in the tunnel at half-time. He had stormed down from his seat at Sir Bobby Charlton Stand even before Pinnock’s goal went past Onana.
While he wasn't sent off during this incident, it has since led to serious repercussions with FA charging him with misconduct following these heated exchanges. Fletcher has until Tuesday to respond to these charges.
FA statement
The Football Association confirmed the charge in a statement, highlighting the seriousness of such conduct and its commitment to maintaining respect and discipline within the sport.
The Football Association released a statement:
"Darren Fletcher has been charged with misconduct following Manchester United's fixture against Brentford on Saturday, 20 October, in the Premier League. It is alleged that the coach acted in an improper and/or confrontational manner and/or used abusive and/or insulting words towards the fourth official and the referee and/or assistant referees. Darren Fletcher has until Tuesday, 29 October, to respond."
This incident serves as a stark reminder of the high emotions that can run during competitive sports matches. It also underscores the importance of maintaining decorum and respect for officials who are tasked with enforcing rules for player safety and fair play.
