UEFA to probe Real red cards

UEFA’s disciplinary unit has launched an investigation into whether Real Madrid players Sergio Ramos and Xabi Alonso deliberately incurred red cards.

The two players were sent off for time wasting late in Real Madrid’s 4-0 win against Ajax in Amsterdam on Tuesday night, and their suspensions will rule them out of the dead rubber against Auxerre next week, while wiping their disciplinary records ahead of the knock-out stages.

UEFA yesterday confirmed they were aware of the incidents and have instructed disciplinary officials to look into them before deciding whether any charges are to be brought.

Under article 5.1 of UEFA’s regulations dealing with loyalty, integrity and sportsmanship both players could be charged and have their suspensions extended.

The sendings off both looked deliberate, with substitute goalkeeper Jerzy Dudek apparently relaying a message that Alonso and Ramos, having already been booked, should time waste and seek a second yellow so as to get any ban out of the way.

Dutch broadcaster NOS also showed footage of Real Madrid coach Jose Mourinho speaking to Alonso on the touchline before he picked up his second caution. However, Mourinho has denied instructing his players to seek deliberate red cards.