Lorimer criticises FA over Smith exit

Leeds legend Peter Lorimer has hit out at the FA following Alan Smith's exit from the England squad for Sunday's friendly with Denmark.

Smith was called up by Sven-Goran Eriksson on Thursday only to leave the camp after it was revealed he had been interviewed by police over his recent bottle-throwing incident at Elland Road.

Lorimer told Radio Five Live: "It was a very mild thing which Alan apologised for, but has been picked up on and they've taken it a bit further.

"I personally think the FA have looked to create a diversion, why don't they get on with the big issue and sort a few other problems out at the FA.

"I think the FA are diverting the pressure away from the other things they should be sorting out. I honestly think it's an FA cop-out.

"I'm not in any way anti-Rio Ferdinand, but his thing has been going on for over a month now and there's still been nothing official done about it.

"It seems like they are evading that issue and saying this is how we are going to be with everybody.

"They've called the laddie in, they knew all about what happened, and now all of a sudden they are making it a big issue.

"I do feel sorry for Alan, because I was one of those who said he has to temper his attitude and control himself on the field, which he has done to a degree. He is not nearly as aggressive as he used to be.

"I think the laddie will be very disappointed because he's worked hard and Leeds United have had a bad time over the last 12 months, so this was one of the bright things that Alan had got into the squad.

"Then all of a sudden even that's been taken away from the lad. I just hope that long-term it doesn't affect his career."