Reading FC boss calls on EFL to ‘maybe change their rules’3 hrs ago
Reading boss Ruben Selles believes the English Football League [EFL] should ‘change their rules’ on appealing suspensions as club captain Andy Yiadom looks set to be suspended for the next two matches following a pair of controversial bookings.
The Royals suffered a 2-1 defeat against Derby County at Pride Park, with referee Craig Breakspear being the focus of attention due to three questionable decisions that went against Selles’ side.
Yiadom received two bookings, both of which seemed harsh, resulting in his suspension for two upcoming matches against Cambridge United and Northampton Town. While clubs can appeal straight red cards, there is currently no provision for appealing two yellow cards.
Speaking after the match on the dismissal of his skipper, Selles commented: “I need to speak with our legal team tomorrow, but I think the footage is that obvious that we should be able to do it [appeal]. If we can’t do it, then maybe the EFL should change their rules.”
The Football Association and Professional Game Match Officials Limited [PGMOL] are the bodies responsible for refereeing in English leagues.
Both of the Rams’ goals were surrounded by controversy. Dwight Gayle appeared to be offside for the opener, and there was also a case of handball involving the former Newcastle United striker in the build-up to the penalty, which Conor Hourihane converted.
“Derby are a really good team and the game was equal in the moment, but the decisions weren’t on our side,” Selles summed up in the East Midlands.