Ferguson courts punishment with BBC boycott
PREMIER LEAGUE chiefs have vowed to act after Sir Alex Ferguson flouted rules by continuing to refuse to speak to reporters from the BBC.
The Manchester United manager has stonewalled the corporation since 2004 in protest at a Panorama investigation into his son Jason’s work as an agent.
There had been hope that Ferguson might relent this season, however, following increased pressure from the league and the League Managers Association.
But he maintained his stance after yesterday’s draw at Fulham, and now faces the prospect of fines whose severity will increase with each subsequent offence. “The Premier League is disappointed that the BBC and Manchester United have, as yet, been unable to resolve the issue of Sir Alex Ferguson providing post-match interviews,” said the league in a statement.
“We will, of course, continue to monitor the situation and offer any help deemed necessary by either party to try and help remedy the situation. However, this is a breach of Premier League rules and the board will consider the appropriate course of action at their next meeting scheduled for late September.”
Rules were tightened up ahead of the new season meaning that managers now have to speak to broadcast rights-holders.