CHELSEA WILL learn today whether Frank Lampard is to have his red card accrued at Liverpool on Sunday rescinded, but will not lose Jose Bosingwa to a retrospective sanction for the lunge on Yossi Benayoun that went unnoticed by the officials at Anfield. The English FA yesterday said no disciplinary action will be taken against the full-back.
The London club submitted their appeal, as expected, to the FA yesterday over Lampard’s dismissal having been outraged by Mike Riley’s decision to send off the England midfielder despite his appearing to reach the ball first in a challenge with Xabi Alonso. Lampard would serve a three-match suspension if the decision is upheld, though there is optimism that the card will be withdrawn.
Bosingwa apologised publicly for plunging his foot into Benayoun’s back as the game ticked towards the final whistle. It happened in front of the assistant referee, who saw no offence and actually waved in Chelsea’s favour.
“I apologise for what I did and it was never my intention to hurt him,” said Bosingwa.
Guardian Service
