FOOTBALL'S BIGGEST MOANER'S CALL TO RESPECT REFS

Bobby Charlton wants FIFA to act in an effort to stop the game being marred by ugly scenes of players rounding on referees - and believes United have learnt to control their players.

England and Reds legend Charlton believes players should be punished with red and yellow cards if they confront or touch referees.

United have been criticised in the past for pressurising referees on the pitch but Charlton thinks that has now changed.

"We have learned our lesson at United. It doesn't help at all. Somebody has to start protecting the referees otherwise there won't be anybody who wants to be one.

"In these last few weeks, we've seen players trying to browbeat the referee. I used to think it was just a South American trait. They used to get onto a referee and I never knew if they were trying to frighten him or make sure he didn't make the same mistake again.

"The referee has a job to do and he is sacrosanct. He should not be touched for any reason and I would like to see FIFA stop anyone touching a referee. To do it as a ploy is dreadful.

"Keep the referee apart. You shouldn't touch him and he shouldn't touch you and things would be better.

"FIFA should give instructions. If players get the message that they will leave the pitch if they touch a referee, they will soon stop it.

"I don't like to comment on other clubs but I saw the Fulham v Chelsea game and I thought it was really bad news."