Uefa to penalise clubs if officials make 'provocative' comments

Uefa chief executive Lars-Christer Olsson has warned clubs they will be held responsible if coaches make deliberately provocative comments following Chelsea's involvement in the retirement of referee Anders Frisk.

Uefa chief executive Lars-Christer Olsson has warned clubs they will be held responsible if coaches make deliberately provocative comments following Chelsea's involvement in the retirement of referee Anders Frisk.

At a meeting of European football's executive committee in Tallinn, Olsson promised new, stronger punishments will be introduced for culprits as well as clubs who fail to control their supporters.

Frisk retired following Chelsea boss Jose Mourinho's accusations the Swede had met with Barcelona boss Frank Rijkaard at half-time in their Champions League clash at the Nou Camp.

After Mourinho's claims, Frisk said he had received death threats from Chelsea fans and announced he was to quit his job.

Mourinho received a two-match touchline ban but Olsson warned future punishments could be even more severe.

Olsson he said the sanctions announced in June would cover deliberately provocative statements made by coaches as well as foul play on the pitch and in the stands.

"Every case should be judged on its own merits but what we have to agree with the clubs is that it is their responsibility if coaches destabilise the opponent as a preparation for matches," he said.

"Especially if that runs the risk of provoking bad behaviour by the fans."