Dowie says FA touchline bust-up charge ‘ridiculous’

CHARLTON boss Iain Dowie said it was “ridiculous” to see managers Alan Pardew and Arsene Wenger hit with an improper conduct charge following their touchline bust-up at Upton Park.

The two coaches had to be separated after Marlon Harewood’s late winner for the home side last Sunday following celebrations by Pardew in the technical area.

Although the Hammers boss issued an apology immediately after the match, Frenchman Wenger — who refused to shake his rival’s hand at the final whistle — has yet to make any public comment. The FA, meanwhile, yesterday decided each man has a case to answer, and they have until November 23 to response.

Both managers have the right to request a personal hearing and the footballing authorities have the power to impose a fine or even a touchline ban should the charge be proven.

Dowie, 41, believes “controlled” passion of the game has to be allowed to be expressed by the coaches from the dug-out.

The Charlton boss said: “I do not want the game too sanitised, and the FA charge is ridiculous. The game is passionate and we should not over-sanitise that.

“However, we have a responsibility not to get carried away. Maybe there was a bit of over-reaction, a bit of over-celebration, but it is certainly not something I would ever think needed an FA charge.”