VIDEO: Fan Struck by Water Bottle - Calls for FA Action Against Jordan Thompson
The Football Association (FA) faces mounting pressure to take action against Preston North End midfielder Jordan Thompson after a water bottle thrown by him struck a spectator. The incident occurred during a match against Norwich City, with Thompson's conduct prompting widespread criticism. Former referee Dermot Gallagher and ex-footballer Jay Bothroyd have both condemned Thompson's behavior as dangerous and deserving of a retrospective ban.
The Football Association (FA) has been urged to take individual action against Jordan Thompson after the Preston North End midfielder kicked a water bottle into the stands, striking a spectator. The incident occurred during the 2-0 defeat at Norwich City, a result that further compounds the pressure on manager Paul Heckingbottom.Thompson was substituted in the 65th minute as Preston searched for a way back into the game. Clearly unhappy with the team's performance - or perhaps his own - the midfielder swung a right foot at a bottle on the touchline. The projectile flew directly into the home end at Carrow Road, catching an unsuspecting supporter.Former Premier League referee Dermot Gallagher reviewed the footage on Sky Sports' Ref Watch and was left baffled by Thompson's lack of discipline. Gallagher suggested that the player only remained on the pitch because the officiating team missed the initial act of aggression at the time of the substitution.“Why would you do this? Whether he will be reprimanded today, I don't know. The referee hasn't seen it because the substitution has been made and the assistant has got his back to it," Gallagher explained. "So, he's lucky he hasn't been seen because it would've been a red card on the day, without doubt. But, doing that is just so dangerous. Somebody was having a drink as well and wasn't aware... just a moment of madness."Add GOAL.com as a preferred source on Google to see more of our reportingThe calls for a retrospective ban have grown louder, with former Wolves and Cardiff City striker Jay Bothroyd expressing his disgust at the player's conduct. Bothroyd highlighted the potential for serious injury, especially if the bottle had struck a vulnerable member of the crowd during the Championship encounter.Bothroyd told Sky Sports: "I think he has to be reprimanded there, to be honest. That is really dangerous. If that hits anyone in the face it is going to really hurt, but imagine if that hit a kid. I think that is really poor from the player and he should be reprimanded."
Jordan Thompson's Reckless Actions
During Preston North End's match against Norwich City, Jordan Thompson, following his substitution, kicked a water bottle into the stands, hitting an unsuspecting spectator. The incident has sparked outrage and calls for the FA to take firm action against the midfielder for his irresponsible and dangerous behavior.
Former Premier League Referee Criticizes Thompson
Dermot Gallagher, reviewing the footage on Sky Sports' Ref Watch, expressed astonishment at Thompson's lack of discipline. The former referee suggested that Thompson was fortunate not to have been caught by the officiating team on the day of the incident. Gallagher emphasized the potential severity of the situation, condemning Thompson's actions as a 'moment of madness.'
Calls for Retrospective Ban
Former footballer Jay Bothroyd joined the chorus of disapproval, highlighting the dangerous consequences of Thompson's actions. Bothroyd emphasized the need for Thompson to face consequences for his reckless behavior, citing the potential harm that could have resulted had the bottle struck a vulnerable individual in the crowd.
Growing Pressure on the FA
With voices from the footballing community amplifying calls for disciplinary action against Jordan Thompson, the Football Association finds itself under increasing scrutiny. The FA's response to this incident involving Thompson will be closely watched, as stakeholders demand accountability and player discipline to ensure the safety of all involved in football matches.
