Players chief condemns goal salute rule as 'ridiculous'
Professional Footballers Association deputy chief executive Mick McGuire today branded FIFA regulations over goal celebrations as “ludicrous”.
McGuire has hit out at the sport’s governing body following Tim Cahill’s dismissal during Everton’s 1-0 victory over Manchester City on Saturday.
The Australian notched the winner in the 61st minute and celebrated his first Barclays Premiership goal by pulling his shirt over his head, only to then be shown his second yellow card by referee Steve Bennett.
Bennett was following a FIFA directive designed to prevent crowd incitement but the PFA believe an urgent rethink is required.
“There were posters put in dressing rooms advertising the new rule. But of course when you score a goal in the heat of the moment it’s a natural reaction to celebrate,” he said.
“When the adrenalin if flowing, and you’ve just scored your first score in the Premiership, you probably won’t remember the poster or the new rule.
“The rule needs to be taken back to FIFA and they must respond with a more sensible approach because as it stands it’s ludicrous. It’s daft.”
