FA fine Allardyce

Bolton manager Sam Allardyce has been fined £2,000 (€2,800), severely censured and warned as to his future conduct by the Football Association after accusing referee Mike Riley of almost causing a riot.

Allardyce admitted a charge of improper conduct in relation to his comments about Riley immediately after Bolton’s match against Blackburn on January 14.

The Wanderers boss watched his side battle to a 0-0 draw at Ewood Park but was incensed by the dismissal of Hidestoshi Nakata in the first half.

Allardyce said: “He’s nearly caused a riot here today when our fans decided to jump over the fence. I don’t think that’s caused by players, it’s caused by some of the refereeing.”