Linesman who told Man City stars to thank fans is axed by FA
The assistant referee who told Manchester City's millionaire footballers to thank supporters who paid £62 to watch their side beat Arsenal at the weekend has been removed from duty by the FA.
John Brooks was caught on camera telling players, including Shropshire's Joe Hart and former Wolves defender Joleon Lescott: "They've paid 62 quid over there . . . go and see them."
He appears to have been punished for his actions, after being stood down from officiating at tonight's FA Cup replay between West Bromwich Albion and Queens Park Rangers.
Manchester City had returned nearly 1,000 unsold tickets for Sunday's Premier League match in protest at the price and supporters held up banners at the game saying: "Don't price us out of our game or lose more fans" and "£62! Where will it stop?".
The Professional Game Match Officials Limited stood Mr Brooks down for the game at the Hawthorns tonight after studying footage, which became a hit on social media, but managing director Mike Riley – a former Premier League official – declined to comment on reasons.
Graham Poll, an ex-referees, said Mr Brooks' comments appeared to have been construed as 'inappropriate'. He said: "Tension can cause abnormal behaviour. You're so focused on your job, you're not thinking straight on other things."
But the decision to remove the official was greeted with dismay by fans.
Premier League blog site EPL Talk said today: "The decision is absolutely awful. Brooks said something that should have been applauded – standing up for the common supporter."
