Fulham manager Marco Silva and Striker Aleksandar Mitrovic have both had a rethink about the incident that led to their dismissal in the team’s 3-1 loss to Manchester United in the quarter-final of the FA Cup on Sunday 19th match.
The duo also regret their actions after being sent off by the center referee on the day Chris Kavanagh and have sent an apology to the referee.
While Fulham manager Marco Silva was charged with abusive behavior towards the referee, striker Mitrovic pushed Kavanagh after getting red-carded and was charged with improper conduct and violence.
The punishment for the Serbian striker was deemed insufficient by the FA and could serve more severe punishment. The Serb used the international break to reflect and sent an apology to his teammates and the club fans.
Fulham was 1-0 ahead against Manchester United until a handball incident reviewed by Kavanagh, which led to a Willian dismissal, sparked angry reactions from Mitrovic and Silva, who admitted he could control his emotions, especially as a manager.
“I should have controlled my own emotions better. I regret what happened, and I have spoken to Chris Kavanagh to apologize. He knows that I respect him and the job he has to do. Unfortunately, we did not see eye-to-eye on the day, but I recognize that he is one of the top referees in this country, and I know that when our paths cross again, there will be mutual respect between us.” Silva said.
The aftermath saw Fulham collapse and lose 3-1 to United, which denied the club a chance at the FA Cup semi-final at Wembley.
The 45-year-old manager also extended his apologies to referee Kavanagh, but more sanctions are expected for the club for failing to control its players’ behaviors.
While Mitrovic is expected to serve a three-match ban, more suspension is expected to follow, as well as for Marco Silva.
Daniel Ademiju Idowu