Leeds United have slammed the Football Association’s decision not to take action against Hull City captain Ian Ashbee over an alleged elbow on Luciano Becchio.
Television replays appeared to show Ashbee’s elbow make contact with the side of Becchio’s head during the 2-2 draw at Elland Road on Tuesday night.
But no action will be taken against the Tigers’ skipper because referee Kevin Friend has told the FA that he saw the incident and decided not to punish him.
This decision has angered Leeds and a statement released by the Yorkshire club read: “The club confirms it is disappointed that no action has been taken following an elbowing incident involving Hull City’s Ian Ashbee during Tuesday’s game at Elland Road.
“Like all clubs, what we seek and should demand from the Football Association is consistency. Trial by television is either the way forward or it is not. It cannot be used on an ad-hoc basis.
“We had circumstances two seasons ago when Jermaine Beckford was suspended for an elbow, which hadn’t been seen by the referee.
“As footage shows, even though the referee claims he saw the incident on Tuesday, he plainly cannot have had the view that we had and is shown the TV images, otherwise you would have expected him to take action.
“If he didn’t see it clearly then in those circumstances trial by television should be used. Referees are human and we understand that and they are as liable to make a mistake as any player is.
“Any mistakes can be rectified by the FA without apportioning any criticism on the referee, but this needs to be done consistently.”