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FA backs Webb after Balotelli controversy

Referee Howard Webb has been backed by the FA © PA Photos

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Football Association chairman David Bernstein has launched a staunch defence of referee Howard Webb, following confirmation that Manchester City had reluctantly accepted Mario Balotelli's four-match suspension.

Webb came under the spotlight following City's narrow win over Tottenham at the weekend, as Balotelli scored the winner from the spot only after being caught on camera appearing to stamp on Scott Parker.

The clash with Parker was not spotted at the time by Webb, much to Spurs boss Harry Redknapp's chagrin, but after viewing the incident again he confirmed he would have meted out punishment - which prompted the FA to slap the Italian with a four-match suspension.

City are far from happy at the outcome, but have reluctantly decided not to lodge an appeal.

"I do not agree with this decision, but we can do nothing," City boss Roberto Mancini told Sky Sports. I do not agree. I explained to Mario and he understood."

The affair has put referees back in the spotlight and Bernstein feels officials need to be shown greater respect.

Bernstein said: "Howard Webb is a fantastic referee and a great ambassador for the sport, his ability and integrity are beyond question.

"He has the utmost respect from within football in England and around the world. That could not have been demonstrated more clearly than in 2010 when he was chosen to referee the UEFA Champions League final and the FIFA World Cup final, and this summer he has been selected for UEFA Euro 2012.

"We all have a duty to respect our referees, to question their integrity or imply anything other than total impartiality is reckless and unfounded. It harms the perception and treatment of referees at every level of football, and we must not allow that climate to exist.

"Referees have only one live opportunity to make a judgement call on those instances that they see in a fast paced game. They do not have the benefit of numerous camera angles and replays, they make these decisions with honesty and integrity."

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