Exclusive: Fulham and Sunderland to face Premier League investigation with bans possible
Sunderland and Fulham are in bother with the Premier League after ugly scenes at Craven Cottage.
Fulham beat the Black Cats 1-0 on 22 November, with Raul Jimenez scoring a late winner to hand Marco Silva a much-needed three points.
For reasons unknown, however, a large coming together exploded after the full-time whistle, with a Sunderland staff member being cautioned and several others being dragged away.
Calvin Bassey and Brian Brobbey were both involved, with Darren England expected to produce a report on the incident in the days that follow.
Premier League to take action against Sunderland and Fulham
Keith Hackett was left enraged by the footage, admitting that it damaged the image of the Premier League, with an investigation and even suspensions likely being prepared.
Speaking exclusively to Football Insider, the ex-PGMOL chief could not believe what he was watching as the full-time whistle was blown at Craven Cottage.
“These scenes are totally unacceptable and damage the image of the Premier League across the world,” Hackett said.
“There needs to be a thorough investigation and fines and suspensions if appropriate.
“The referee will submit a detailed report, and this will be included in the investigation. Both clubs will also be requested to submit a report.”
Regis Le Bris and Marco Silva ignore controversy
Both Silva and Le Bris decided to stick to the football in their post-match press conferences.
The Frenchman admitted that Fulham deserved to win, with fatigue possibly hitting the Black Cats after the final international break of the year saw many miles travelled.
Sunderland were sensational against Arsenal before that break, but it looks to have caught up with them now after this lacklustre defeat in the capital.
Still sitting in an impressive sixth spot, Sunderland already have an eye on the January transfer window, with several deals possible.
As for Fulham, they could do without suspensions, given Rodrigo Muniz’s crushing injury blow, and their three-point gap to the relegation zone.
Either way, this drama hasn’t finished yet.