Gary O’Neil at centre of FA probe after Wolves boss claimed refs have ‘subconscious’ bias towards big clubs

THE FA have launched a probe into Gary O’Neil’s claims that refs have a “subconscious” bias to the Prem’s big clubs.

Wolves boss O’Neil has been contacted by football chiefs after his  post-match comments following John Stones’ controversial 95th-minute winner for Manchester City on Sunday.

Reuters

Gary O’Neil is facing a probe after his comments[/caption]

Sky Sports

Bernardo Silva was judged to have not impeded Jose Sa[/caption]

Referee Chris Kavanagh ruled out Stones’ header for offside against  Bernardo Silva — but changed his mind in a pitchside review after VAR intervened to hand City a 2-1 win.

Now O’Neil will have to explain his remarks before the FA decide on any further action.

O’Neil said: “There’s no chance people are purposely against Wolves.

“But is there something in the subconscious around the decision-making, without even knowing it? Are you more likely to give it to Man City than Wolves?

“My senses are heightened when we are facing Man City. Are the officials the same?

“If I had to upset someone and there’s a big and a little guy, I’m upsetting the little guy.”

City’s winner hinged on whether Silva, who was standing in an offside position, had unsighted Sa as he attempted to keep out Stones’ bullet header.

Silva appeared to step away from the keeper just before Stones’ effort, with Kavanagh judging Sa was not prevented from being able to see the ball.

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The Premier League explained the decision in a statement that read: “Stones’ goal was disallowed on-field due to Bernardo Silva being in an offside position and in the goalkeeper’s line of vision.

“The VAR deemed Bernardo Silva wasn’t in the line of vision and had no impact on the goalkeeper and recommended an on-field review.

“The referee overturned his original decision and a goal was awarded.”