STOP

Last updated : 18 January 2005 By editor

Sir Alex Ferguson and Arsene Wenger have overstepped the mark in their latest public war of words - according to the managers' union. The League Managers' Association have no power to discipline the Manchester United and Arsenal bosses, and chief executive John Barnwell must leave it up to the Football Association as to whether action is required.

Barnwell said:

'The nearer you get to the end line emotions could get higher, but this one is perhaps a step too far. We at the League Managers' Association have no big stick to beat them with. If the FA feel they should take action then they should go ahead.'

He had earlier told Sky Sports News:
'You do get, from time to time, in a very emotional game, strong personalities - that's why they're managers - and a difference of opinion. I think this has happened with Alex and with Arsene over too long a period. It's past history; it should have been dealt with but it's now reared its head again. Certainly, if we thought there was something which would pour some water and less fuel on the fire then we would do that.'