UEFA chief David Taylor slams Didier Drogba

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posted on 15 years ago — updated on 1 second ago

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Drogba may be slapped a six-month ban from Champions League.

New Delhi: The official thinks that the Ivorian's conduct in the wake of the Blues' defeat to Barcelona was wholly unacceptable.

David Taylor, the general secretary of UEFA has hit out at Didier Drogba for his foul-mouthed outburst after the Champions League semi-final at Stamford Bridge.

Taylor, who last week dismissed suggestions of a conspiracy surrounding the actions of referee Tom Henning Ovrebo in game as a "load of crap", has now turned his ire on the Chelsea striker.

The Ivorian ranted at the referee and the TV cameras and swore directly into one camera that was broadcasting live. His conduct was condemened by Taylor, who told BBC Radio 5Live's 'Sportsweek' programme, "I have seen worse behaviour on some amateur football pitches in Scotland.

"But it wasn't a pleasant sight, it was not pleasant to see and not the kind of example one would want. People have been talking about respect campaigns, UEFA has a respect campaign and the FA has one We work closely together and this flies in the face of all these worthy endeavours," he said.

"I was pleased to see a public statement of apology, although you can't excuse everything by an apology the day after. We, as the governing authority for the competition, will have to look into the matter and that's what we will do," he added.

Taylor could also offer little solace to Manchester United midfielder, Darren Fletcher, who was red-carded in the week's other semi-final against Arsenal and will miss the Rome final through suspension as a result.

"I know Darren Fletcher and I was sorry to see what happened but a game of football has to be played within the rules and personal sympathy can't interfere with the application of the rules," Taylor added.

"There is a chance, because the matter is being considered by the disciplinary committee on Monday, but as a rule a player who is sent off will automatically miss the next game, so we start from that premise," he said.

Some rumours have suggested that Drogba's punishment may be a six-month ban from Champions League football.