Zenden hits out at FA probe into melee

MIDDLESBROUGH midfielder Boudewijn Zenden has admitted his surprise at the FA charge with which his side and Everton are facing following last weekend’s goalmouth melee.

The Dutchman was at the centre of things after Boro reacted angrily to Duncan Ferguson’s challenge on goalkeeper Mark Schwarzer, sparking a brawl involving virtually every player other than Toffees’ keeper Richard Wright.

FA disciplinary chiefs decided action was necessary and charged both clubs with failing to control their players, much to the annoyance of Everton boss David Moyes, and Zenden yesterday admitted he was surprised by the decision.