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LONDON, Aug 5 (Reuters) - The English Football Association (FA)
has banned team managers, players and club officials from making
media comments about referees before a game as it bids to clamp
down on intimidation of match officials.
"Clubs are also being advised separately that any media comments
by managers, players or any other club officials relating to
appointed match officials prior to a fixture will no longer be
allowed," the FA said in a statement.
"Such pre-match comments will be deemed improper and dealt with
accordingly."
The FA said post-match comments were still allowed as long as
they were not personal, implied bias, attacked the integrity of
match officials or brought the game into disrepute.
The FA also said it would now charge clubs if three or more
players surrounded a referee in a "confrontational manner".
Previously, officials were required to report any such harassment
before any action was taken.