Cleared Clattenburg feared career was over

Referee Mark Clattenburg has been officially cleared over allegations he racially abused Chelsea midfielder John Obi Mikel and has described his ordeal, which saw him temporarily barred from officiating, as “truly frightening”.

In one of the most high-profile cases English football has seen, Clattenburg was accused of mouthing “shut up you monkey” to Nigerian international Mikel during a match against Manchester United at Stamford Bridge.

But in a verdict that is at best uncomfortable for Chelsea and at worst embarrassing, the FA — having taken independent legal advice —decided he had no case to answer. An FA statement did, however, add that the complaint, made by Mikel’s team-mate Ramires was “made in good faith” while Chelsea have accepted the verdict.

Clattenburg spoke of his relief and said the last few weeks had been “the most stressful of his life”.

“I am looking forward to putting this behind me and concentrating on refereeing in the Premier League and other competitions,” he said.

“To know you were innocent of something but that there was the opportunity for it to wreck your career was truly frightening.

“Racism has no place in football and this experience should not discourage those to speak out if they genuinely believe they are a victim of abuse. However, there are processes that should be adhered to in order that any investigation can be carried out in a manner that is fair for all parties involved.

“I know first-hand the ramifications of allegations of this nature being placed into the public domain ahead of a formal process and investigation.

“I hope no referee has to go through this in the future.”

The FA said the evidence had been considered by independent QC David Waters, who ruled Ramires’s claim was not supported by any other evidence and was also disputed by the other match officials.

Chelsea have defended their decision to report the case even though the police, urged to act by the Society of Black Lawyers, also found no evidence to take it further.

A statement from Chelsea read: “With regards to the Mark Clattenburg decision, the club accepts the case is now concluded and notes the FA states the allegation was made in good faith. Chelsea FC has a duty of care, as do all employers, to act responsibly when such allegations are reported by employees.”

Alan Leighton, from the referees’ union Prospect, increased the pressure on Chelsea by calling on them to apologise to Clattenburg — something they have avoided doing so far.

“We are seeking a full and unreserved apology and compensation for loss of earnings, damage to reputation and stress,” said Leighton.