Megson slams FIFA
Bolton manager Gary Megson has waded into the controversy surrounding the Republic of Ireland’s defeat by France in a World Cup play-off by rounding on FIFA.
The former world champions were expected to qualify automatically but instead finished runners-up to Serbia in their group. And Megson believes it unjust that world football’s governing body opted to seed teams like France in the play-offs.
He said: “I think that is a little bit out of order. With all due respect France have made a bit of a mess of it, not to qualify outright.
“Ireland, though, have been fantastic in what they did. Their reward was to be stuck in against another huge team. It was really unfair on them. Perhaps they should have been seeded.”
Thierry Henry’s handball which led to the winner has prompted widespread calls for video technology to be introduced.
UEFA, meanwhile, have employed extra assistants behind the goal in Europa League games this season.
Megson said: “Maybe that could be one option but I have seen Europa League games and nothing has been brought into practice yet.
“Until we get to a point where everyone can see what the camera sees from all different angels we are going to have to accept it. I am so sorry for Ireland that the goal happened in that manner.”
Megson has told his players only goalkeeper Jussi Jaaskelainen is assured of his place in the derby against Blackburn tomorrow.
Two weeks on Megson is still reeling from the 5-1 defeat by Aston Villa, which posed searching questions about the quality of his squad.
Bolton have been shipping goals with 15 conceded in the last five Barclays Premier League games.
Megson is adamant the rot has got to stop now, starting with a positive result against their local rivals.
He said: “The Villa defeat will rankle for a long time. Whatever team it turns out to be on Sunday, if Jussi is not playing, he is the only one who could say it is out of order.
“Everyone else who plays against Blackburn can consider themselves fortunate in my book.”
Full-back Jlloyd Samuel is available again after suspension and could replace Paul Robinson but midfielder Tamir Cohen is doubtful with a groin problem.
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