Football
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Darren Ferguson charged for suggesting referees should be shot

Doncaster Rovers manager Darren Ferguson has been charged for saying it would be a "good idea" to shoot referees after his side's 1-1 draw against Plymouth on Saturday, the Football Association has announced.

The 45-year-old was annoyed when Andy Baines ignored Rovers' appeals for a penalty after James Coppinger went down in the box in the last minute of the League One clash.

When asked by reporters about the decision after the game, Ferguson said: "The referees are part-time and the standard is appalling, their fitness levels are a disgrace, I've had enough of it.

"What can I do? Shoot them, it would be a good idea."

In a short statement on Wednesday, the FA said: "It is alleged his comments were improper and/or brought the game into disrepute."

The former Peterborough and Preston boss has until 6 p.m. on Monday, Jan. 22, to respond to the charge.

Speaking on Sunday, Ferguson said his comment was "tongue-in-cheek" and was a result of "frustration," before stressing that he does not "advocate violence against officials."

Apologising for the comment and saying he regretted the wording, Ferguson added: "Referees have a tough job and I have a lot of respect for the challenges they face, but I would like to see more done to raise standards across the board and give them the best chance of getting decisions right."

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