FA decision due on Mark Clattenburg investigation
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.Mark Clattenburg should hear by the end of the week whether he is to face any action following Chelsea's allegation that he used inappropriate language to midfielder John Obi Mikel.
The 37-year-old official returned to training with the top-flight Select Group of referees yesterday for the first time since Chelsea's complaint but he will miss a third weekend of Premier League matches.
Chelsea have alleged that Clattenburg used a term understood to have been interpreted as racist towards Mikel during the Premier League match against Manchester United on October 28. The official strenuously denies having done so.
Clattenburg denies Chelsea’s allegation.
Clattenburg and referees chief Mike Riley have decided jointly that he should not be in charge of matches while the case has been ongoing.
A police investigation has also been taking place following a complaint made on the basis of reports.
Clattenburg had not even trained while the investigations have been taking place but he did so yesterday at St George's Park.
All the interviews with the FA and police have been concluded and the regulatory body of the FA will be advised by an independent QC about whether any action should follow. That decision looks likely to be made before the end of the week.
The governing body have spoken to Clattenburg, assistant referees Michael McDonough and Simon Long and fourth official Michael Jones.
It is believed all the other officials, who were wired up together with Clattenburg, have said they did not hear any use of the term alleged by Chelsea.
The FA are also keen to have a swift conclusion to the case which could not be more sensitive given the recent four-match ban handed to Chelsea's captain John Terry for racist abuse.
PA
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments