EFL Club Slams FA Decision to Ban Captain for Seven Games

Details

Swindon Town Football Club has expressed its strong condemnation of the decision made by an independent regulatory panel to ban captain Ollie Clarke for seven games. The midfielder was found guilty of two charges of acting in an improper manner or using indecent behavior towards an opponent during the club’s Carabao Cup match against Cardiff City in August.
Clarke, 33, admitted to the charges, which relate to incidents that occurred in the 57th and 94th minutes of the match. As a result of the decision, Clarke will be suspended for the next seven games and will have to pay a fine of £2,750. This means that he will miss the entire festive period and will not return to the pitch until the Robins’ EFL Trophy last-16 tie against Luton Town on January 13.

Club’s Response

In a statement, Swindon Town Football Club expressed its disappointment and concern over the decision. The club believes that the decision falls short of the standard of proof beyond reasonable doubt and was instead based on the balance of probabilities. Throughout the lengthy process, Clarke has consistently maintained his innocence, a position that has never wavered.
“We are concerned by the prolonged nature of the proceedings and the impact this process has had on Ollie’s mental well-being,” the statement read. “As a club captain, Ollie’s character and integrity have never been in question, and he continues to have the full support of the club, the management, and his teammates.”

Impact on the Team

Clarke’s suspension is a significant blow to Ian Holloway’s side, who are currently third in the League Two table and two points off the top. The midfielder has been in good form this season, scoring his second goal of the season in the club’s 3-0 win against former club Bristol Rovers.

FA’s Statement

The FA’s statement read: “An independent Regulatory Commission has sanctioned Swindon Town FC’s Oliver Clarke for two incidents of misconduct that took place during their EFL Cup tie against Cardiff City FC on Tuesday 12 August. It was alleged that the midfielder acted in an improper manner and/or used indecent behavior towards an opposing player around the 57th minute and another opposing player around the 94th minute.”

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