Football: Ince faces wrath of FA

Football: Stockholm setback increases pressure on England coach as Shearer expresses concern over bad publicity

PAUL INCE may be banned from competitive internationals for six months after being sent-off against Sweden in Stockholm on Saturday, writes Glenn Moore.

Ince will automatically be suspended from England's next match, the European Championship qualifier against Bulgaria on 10 October, but could face further disciplinary action from both the Football Association and Uefa, Europe's governing body.

After being dismissed for a second bookable offence Ince tried to have words with Henrik Larsson, the victim of his foul, then verbally abused the referee Pierluigi Collina. He was ushered away by team-mates but still had time to flick a V-sign in the direction of the England bench and Swedish supporters behind it before disappearing down the tunnel.

It was the 30-year-old former England captain's first sending off, but 12th and 13th bookings, in his 44-match international career. He became the sixth England player to be dismissed in 126 years - and the second in as many matches.

The FA intends to wait to see if Collina, or the match observer, mention Ince's behaviour in their reports to Uefa before commenting, but there is already a groundswell of opinion in favour of taking action independent of Uefa.

Peter Willis, the influential president of the Referees' Association, speaking in a personal capacity, said: "I was saddened and even angered at his reaction. It was not one of disappointment, nor of contrition or sadness, but of belligerence. It was not right or proper for a man of his position. As a professional footballer he has a responsibility. The governing bodies, such as the FA, have a responsibility to do something about it."

David Davies, the FA's Director of Public Affairs, said yesterday: "Glenn was not aware of any gesture being made when we returned but will, as always, be studying the video. He is then likely to wait for the Uefa reports before deciding what to do, if anything."

To judge by his support for Ian Wright and Alan Shearer when involved in domestic disciplinary controversy, Hoddle's natural inclination would be to support his player. However, some FA councillors may take a different view and the matter is likely to be raised at the next meeting of the International Committee, in a fortnight's time, if not before.

There is a way for the FA to take the moral high ground without hampering England's European Championship chances. After playing Bulgaria England travel to Luxembourg for a tie they ought to be able to win without Ince. Then there is a November friendly against Yugoslavia with the prospect of a further non-competitive match before the qualifying campaign resumes in March.

The FA could thus announce it was suspending Ince for an additional international match on top of, and regardless of, any Uefa action without seriously affecting England's chances. This may also pre-empt further Uefa punishment.