RED CARDS ON WAY FOR FOUL-MOUTHED BOSSES

PLANS to film dugouts and technical areas are likely to be rejected amid fears that managers wearing microphones could bring the game into disrepute. As Sportsmail revealed yesterday, top-flight clubs have been asked to consider a number of enhancements to television coverage as part of an ongoing bid to appease broadcasters in the wake of the coronavirus pandemic. It can also be disclosed that an advisory group — consisting of Manchester City, Arsenal, West Ham and Southampton — has been set up to examine ways to bring fans closer to the action, given that a potential return of football will happen behind closed doors. While there is a keen desire to assist broadcasters, fuelled by fears they will call in a £762million refund, it is thought by some that providing audio from the technical area might cause serious issues, given the high emotion of the environment. A further gathering of the advisory group has been arranged for tomorrow, with a vote on the new measures set to be taken by clubs at the next Premier League summit. Club insiders have said that some believe it would be almost impossible to stop their managers and members of backroom staff from using expletives. Given Pep Guardiola and other coaches are known to give pitchside advice to players, there are also concerns of tactics being made public and fears that the move may challenge the integrity of the competition. Getting managers to agree to the proposals was also considered unlikely. The situation is a fascinating one and is providing an unprecedented opportunity for broadcasters to push for the increased access they have long craved. Other proposals include cameras in the dressing room and tunnels — and half-time interviews. Such interviews would be likely to be carried out close to the kick-off of the second half to allow tempers to cool — and give managers time to speak to their teams.