Masters, Webb criticise FIFA over Balogun red card controversy

Two of the most powerful men in English football have joined forces to hit out at FIFA and the U-turn which allowed USA striker Folarin Balogun to play on at the World Cup last month, despite the red card which should have led to an automatic ban.

Webb, the chief refereeing officer for Pro Ref, is worried the controversy will have a negative impact on how referees are perceived.

LONDON, Aug 19 : The fallout from FIFA's decision to allow U.S. forward Folarin Balogun to play despite a World Cup red card risked undermining trust in football's disciplinary and officiating processes, warned the Premier League's refereeing head Howard Webb and chief executive Richard Masters. Balogun's dismissal was