Former Manchester United defender and current Sky Sports pundit John O’Shea has revealed his shock at Tottenham manager Mauricio Pochettino picking up a two game ban but allayed fears over the impact it might have.
The Football Association revealed on their official website that the Argentine boss will be forced to sit in the stands for their next two domestic fixtures, as well as paying a £10,000 fine, for his behaviour in the aftermath of defeat to Burnley.
Having seen the Spurs manager in a heated discussion with Mike Dean, O’Shea was stunned by the length of the ban considering it was his first charge, but suggested his methods on the touchline meant he would not be a huge miss.
He told Sky Sports’ The Debate (06/03, 22:00): “As a manager, he’s there, almost within touching distance of the players he wants to get a message across to.
“For certain games, it can be a big factor, maybe a derby game, (Tottenham’s visit to) Liverpool, exactly.
“It’s going to be a big miss. To be honest I think he can be a bit… I know the pictures didn’t look nice. Was it his first proper charge? (Yes, which is why the punishment wasn’t any stronger) Wow. Pochettino’s not exactly one of the most agitated managers on the sideline for movement, I think it might affect some managers a bit more.
Opinion
O’Shea no doubt had to deal with his manager missing for games when Sir Alex Ferguson was in charge, but rightly points out that the punishment is a little harsh for a man who is usually one of the most respectful managers the league has to offer. Have you ever seen Pochettino lose his rag like he did after defeat to Burnley? There was definitely more than meets the eye and it brings up the argument once again that referees should have microphones and cameras for broadcast as they do in rugby. Still, the FA have made their decision – rightly or wrongly imposing their punishment on the Spurs man – and fans will be hoping that O’Shea’s verdict about it not being a major loss on the touchline comes true. One thing is for sure – the decision has set a dangerous precedent and managers will have to tread a very thin line when it comes to their behaviour in future if this is how they are to be punished for their first misdemeanour.