Premier League chief executive Richard Scudamore has revealed that a new directive has been issued to give referees more protection and respect this season.

UK referees’ chief Keith Hackett has revealed it is likely to be “a couple of weeks” before Rob Shoebridge takes charge of another match after his blunder during the Coca Cola Championship match between Crystal Palace and Bristol City.

The Professional Game Match Officials Board have written to the Football Association for an explanation after Brad Friedel’s red card was rescinded.

MARK HALSEY will be returned to Premier League duty ‘‘before the end of the month’’.

Manchester United manager Alex Ferguson has expressed anger at the decision to overturn Chelsea captain John Terry’s sending off last weekend.

Professional Footballer’s Association chief executive Gordon Taylor insists referees have a responsibility to protect the most skilful players in the game.

FORMER England and Arsenal defender Martin Keown has branded players who make two-footed tackles “cowardly”.

Wigan chairman Dave Whelan has called for the authorities to investigate the past performances of referee Phil Dowd after Latics boss Paul Jewell criticised the official for costing his side victory at Arsenal.

Referees chief Keith Hackett believes Howard Webb has the current form and experience to take control of Sunday’s clash of the titans between Manchester United and Chelsea.

REFEREES’ chief Keith Hackett has criticised Chelsea players for questioning the integrity of referee Graham Poll and will now meet boss Jose Mourinho to “run through a number of issues”.

Referees’ chief Keith Hackett has criticised Chelsea players for questioning the integrity of Graham Poll and will now meet boss Jose Mourinho to “run through a number of issues“.

Dermot Gallagher has been dropped from the League Two match he was due to referee today after failing to send Ben Thatcher off for the Manchester City defender’s crude challenge on Portsmouth’s Pedro Mendes on Wednesday.

The fall-out between Jose Mourinho and Arsene Wenger looks set to rumble on into the New Year after descending into virtual farce over a Christmas card.

Referees’ chief Keith Hackett has revealed Arsenal called him for clarification of the guidance to officials in the wake of their controversial defeat to Chelsea.

Tim Cahill could escape suspension for his controversial celebration of Everton’s winner at Manchester City when he was sent off for pulling his shirt over his head.

Referees chief Philip Don is demanding an improvement in the standard of officiating and has admitted the men in black are getting decisions wrong.