Leeds United assistant manager hit by FA misconduct charge of 'improper behaviour'

The Whites lost the game 1-0 but were chasing for a late equaliser when Patrick Bamford went to ground in the Rovers penalty area. Leeds assistant manager Christopher John was seen rushing to remonstrate with fourth official Keith Stroud which led to a brief confrontation with Blackburn staff. Shortly after John was shown the red card and sent off. John has now been charged with misconduct by the FA.

An FA spokesperson said: “Leeds United's assistant manager has been charged with misconduct following their game against Blackburn Rovers in the EFL Championship on Saturday, 13 April. It's alleged that Christopher John's behaviour around the 97th minute was improper, and he has until Friday, 19 April, to provide a response.”

Addressing the incident after the game manager Daniel Farke said: “I haven't really seen the situation, just when the referee came to give the red card. My staff members were appealing for a red card, it's also quite normal at the crunch time period. You also have to understand the emotions, especially after what happened the other night. I have to ask for the explanation. The fourth official Keith has just told me one of the staff members has crossed the line to their coaching zone, if this is the case we have to apologise because it shouldn't happen. Although I've seen many opposition members cross the line into our area and not appealed for red card. If he has then the referee was probably spot on with his decision. I would wish the referees are a bit more spot on on the pitch when it comes to key rules, perhaps we'd be there with more points but that's a different topic."