Simon Jordan believes it would be “ludicrous” if the FA decide to penalise Crystal Palace manager Patrick Vieira after the Frenchman lashed out at a fan during the 3-2 defeat to Everton.
The Eagles found themselves 2-0 up at Goodison Park before ultimately losing to the Toffees – a win that saw the Merseyside outfit secure Premier League survival.
After the match, Everton supporters invaded the pitch to celebrate, with one supporter goading Vieira. The former Arsenal midfielder lost his cool and kicked out at the fan in question as a result.
Speaking on TalkSport, former Palace owner Jordan suggested it would be wrong for the FA to launch disciplinary action against Vieira.
He said: “It would be ludicrous, absolutely ludicrous. If you want to observe the letter of the law… then maybe there’s an argument you would have a case to face.
“But in the real world, where you’re looking at a set of circumstances which are completely and utterly unacceptable, how could you possibly charge him?”
TIF Thoughts on Vieira’s actions…
Vieira would probably be the first to admit that his reaction was not ideal, but it was hardly surprising. Supporters appear to believe they can act in any way they wish towards players and staff, and it is worrying that fans would rather goad an opponent than celebrate their own victory.
It is a blight on English fan culture, and at the end of the day, pitch invasions aren’t really the issue, but rather the people who partake.
Should Vieira be charged by the FA?
Yes
No
Common sense must prevail, and while Vieira must do all he can to remain calm if the situation happens again, he must be forgiven for reacting in such a way.