Ex-referee slams FA for statement on Manchester United star after “totally unacceptable” act

The Football Association have been slammed for their reaction to Joshua Zirkzee’s celebration during Manchester United’s 3-1 win over Southampton.

Manchester United secured an important comeback win against Southampton on Thursday evening, with Amad scoring a late hat-trick in the clash.

The Ivorian was named Man of the Match but Joshua Zirkzee also impressed after coming on as a second-half substitute.

Zirkzee set up Amad’s first goal and provided much-needed hold up play in the closing 30 minutes of the game to help Ruben Amorim’s side progress the ball.

However, the Dutch international was involved in controversy during the celebrations of United’s second goal after he was pictured grabbing his crotch.

This led to calls for Zirkzee to receive a ban. Jude Bellingham and Cristiano Ronaldo have both previously received one-game suspensions and fines for similar celebrations.

However, the Football Association decided against banning Zirkzee and instead only issued a warning for the United forward.

A short statement read: “As guidance, we have issued Joshua Zirkzee with a reminder of his responsibilities, and he will face no further action.”

Hackett slams FA decision over Zirkzee celebration

This decision from the FA has infuriated former referee Keith Hackett, who believes that Zirkzee should have received a ban for his “totally unacceptable” celebration.

The 80-year-old has suggested that this will send the wrong message to officials down the English pyramid.

“Once again the Football Association deliver the wrong message to football players across the country,” Hackett told Football Insider.

“Manchester United’s Joshua Zirkzee’s very crude celebration which frankly was totally unacceptable is NOT going to receive a sanction.

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“Players at grassroots level have a habit of copying what they see Premier League players do.

“So when it happens at grassroots level having seen no sanction issued by The FA please advise referees if they sanction or ignore.

“Come on, you are the gatekeepers of the game and youngsters attending matches should be protected.”

Old man yells at cloud…

This may have been one of the few times the FA actually made the right decision. It was ridiculous when there were rumours about Bellingham being banned for the same thing at Euro 2024 and it remains ridiculous now.

We all know that there are much more serious things for those in charge to be worried about and hopefully they can focus on them instead.

Meanwhile, Zirkzee is in line for his first start since being booed off at Old Trafford against Newcastle, with the Dutch striker likely to play ahead of Rasmus Højlund against Brighton on Sunday.

The 23-year-old has had several positive cameos in recent matches, particularly against Southampton, where he helped change the game around.

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