Magpies are in the dock over breach of FA’s kit regulations

NUFC Editor NEWCASTLE United have been hit with an FA charge for breaching kit regulations.

United’s under-18 side have been wearing a shirt bearing the logo of their sponsor Fun88, who are a betting company, and that is a breach of FA rules. The club have been given a week to respond to the charge.

A statement released by both the club and the FA read: “Newcastle United have been charged for their Under-18s team wearing football shirts bearing the logo of a betting company, in breach of the FA’s kit and advertising regulations.

“The club have until 6pm on 27 March 2018 to respond to the charge.”

It is a charge under the same set of rules that saw Pep Guardiola charged for wearing a yellow ribbon in support of politicians in Catalonia, although United’s is – of course – not a political charge. Instead it relates to a rule not allowing teams with players under 18 to wear the logos of companies considered “detrimental” to young people.

The specific rule reads: “In the case of a team comprising players all under the age of 18 years on 31 August in the current season, the appearance on or incorporation in any item of clothing of any reference whatsoever to a product, service or other activity which is considered by The Association as detrimental to the welfare, health or general interest of young persons, or is otherwise considered inappropriate, having regard to the age of the players, is prohibited.”

With photographic proof that the team have worn the shirts, it’s difficult to see how United can avoid sanctions. They have a week to answer the charge.