Referee in hot water over Beckham challenge

Last updated : 27 April 2002 By Luke Thornhill
Sepp Blatter, FIFA President, issued the warning today after criticising referee Markus Merk for failing to book the player, although he would later be sent off for two other bookable offences.

"It was such a drastic case that the refereeing commission will have to talk about possible consequences," warned Blatter.

"That was an attack rather than a tackle, if the referee doesn't see that and act accordingly, then it's good night football.

"Beckham is a symbol of the game and his presence would add prestige to the World Cup."

National side manager Sven Goran Erikkson has said though that he will take the England captain to the Far East, even if there are doubts over his fitness.

"David is one of the best footballers in the world, so if there is even a small chance that he will be able to play, of course I will take him," he said.