Football: Bates vents anger over `disgusting' Fowler
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.CHELSEA'S CHAIRMAN, Ken Bates, has widened his attack on Liverpool in the war of words following Graeme Le Saux's clash with Robbie Fowler.
He has now criticised Michael Owen and David James, while describing Fowler's actions as a "sad commentary for the decline of a once-great team".
Bates had already attacked Fowler for allegedly baiting Le Saux with sexual comments which provoked the Chelsea full-back to elbow him in the head.
Now Bates has gone further in condemning "pretty unpleasant behaviour both on and off the pitch" by Liverpool players at Stamford Bridge last weekend.
He wrote in Thursday night's programme before Chelsea's Cup-Winners' Cup win over Valerenga: "Owen may be angel-faced but angel he isn't. James' childish behaviour was unnecessary, but Fowler's behaviour was quite frankly disgusting."
After reviewing video replays of the Liverpool game, the Football Association charged both Le Saux and Fowler with misconduct, but Bates feels, that the use of television evidence is "too hit and miss".
"I have said for nearly five years to the FA and I will say it again - we have a choice, either ignore all TV evidence, and if the referee doesn't see it, then that is the end of the matter.
"Alternatively, all videos of all matches should be viewed by a panel of respected senior retired referees on Sunday to Monday. With decisions being made by the same panel, there will at least be consistency in decisions."
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments