Everton boss admits to improper conduct charge
Monday, 29 Sep 2008 21:19
David Moyes could face touchline ban
Everton manager David Moyes has admitted to a charge of improper conduct in relation to an incident in his side's win over Stoke City earlier this month.
Moyes was angered by referee Alan Wiley when he decided not to give Everton a penalty after Stoke defender Leon Cort looked to have handled the ball inside his penalty area. Wiley decided to give Everton a free-kick on the edge of the penalty area after consulting his assistant.
The Everton manager was less than pleased with the decision and was sent to the stands for protesting. Moyes, who could face a touchline ban, has requested a personal hearing with the FA. He also revealed he had spoken to Wiley and admitted the referee had earned his "respect" after their conversation.
"The referee has since contacted me - that conversation will remain private - and that is it," Moyes explained.
"We have a Respect campaign that is really important but you can't just put a big label on it. You earn respect and I have to say the referee has earned a great deal more respect from me by what he has said from me."
It's been a difficult start to the season for Moyes and Everton as they have only managed to win two of the eight games they have played in all competitions this season. Moyes has admitted that his hesitancy to sign a new contract may be one of the reasons for his team's poor form but hoped to sort out his future soon.