Former BBC and Sky pundit re-awakens Forest Vs Liverpool controversy, makes bold FA apology claim

07/03/2024 Raymond Nothingham Forest 0

Expert Richard Keys has stated that rather than facing charges, Nottingham Forest ought to get an apology from the Football Association.

The FA has charged the Reds and their coach, Steven Reid, in response to their protest during last Saturday’s contentious 1-0 loss to Liverpool. After the final whistle at the City Ground, furious scenes ensued due to a mistake made by referee Paul Tierney, which left Forest furious. Reid received a red card for confronting the officials, and the club is accused of failing to guarantee that its players and technical staff act appropriately. However, Keys has expressed compassion for the Reds, called the FA “a joke,” and accused Tierney of being conceited.

He posted on X (formerly Twitter): “Instead of charging Forest the FA should be apologising. What a joke. Have they charged the arrogant ref who refused to listen to colleagues on the day telling people ‘I’m the boss’?”

In a statement, the FA said: “Nottingham Forest and Steven Reid have been charged following their Premier League game against Liverpool on Saturday 2 March. It’s alleged that the club failed to ensure its players and/or technical area occupants don’t behave in an improper way after the final whistle.

When play was stopped in the 97th minute of the game due to a possible head injury to Ibrahima Konate, Forest complained that they were not allowed to regain possession of the ball despite being in possession. Tierney opted for a drop-ball at the feet of Liverpool goalkeeper Caoimhin Kelleher. Darwin Nunez scored a goal after the visitors won a corner.

Felipe, an unutilized substitute, was booked for his objections at the conclusion of the game in addition to Reid’s dismissal. Although Reds owner Evangelos Marinakis was present at the stadium, the team denied reports that he had to be held by security because he had “chased” the referee through the tunnel. Marinakis attempted to ask the referees about the events preceding up to Liverpool’s goal, but they moved away.

Nottingham Forest and Steven Reid charged with misconduct by FA after coach confronted referee Paul Tierney over dropped-ball decision which led to Darwin Nunez's winner in last weekend's Liverpool clash | Daily

“It’s further alleged that the coach’s language towards a match official after the final whistle was abusive and or insulting, which led to his dismissal, and it’s also alleged that he acted in an improper manner and or used abusive and or insulting language towards a match official after being sent off.

“Nottingham Forest and Steven Reid both have until Wednesday 13 March to provide their respective responses to these charges.”