FA contact Pep over ref comments

PEP Guardiola has been asked to explain his pre-derby comments about referee Anthony Taylor.

The appointment of Taylor (pictured), who is from Wythenshawe, upset a number of City fans ahead of the game and the manager was asked about picking an official from the city in his pre-match press conference.

Guardiola has until 6pm on Thursday evening to provide further observations and could be fined – even though he was positive about the referee.

Under FA rules, Premier League coaches are not allowed to speak about officials in upcoming games. After asking if it was known which team Taylor supports, and being told Altrincham, Guardiola replied: “So no problem. He is going to try to do the best job, like we try as managers and football players.

“Even with VAR there will be mistakes but it will reduce that issue. Mr Taylor is going to try and make a good time.

“The important thing is to focus on our game and, of course, knowing which opponent we are going to face and that is all. Hopefully they can make good decisions for both sides, and a good game, like all England and all Europe is going to watch us.

“That is the most important pleasure. The referee doesn’t want to make a mistake.

“He knows everyone from around the world is going to watch him and he doesn’t want to make a mistake, that is pretty sure.

“But, if he is fan of United or City, everyone can be a fan of whoever he wants so no problem.”