Abusive footballers

sir – I could not agree more with Roy Boud (Letters, October 18) that professional footballers and their managers need to set a far better example to young boys and girls who are interested in the game. The football authorities need to act swiftly and firmly to stamp out abusive behaviour towards referees.

Fining the perpetrators would have little effect, given how much money footballers earn. A far better deterrent would be for points to be deducted should a player or manager behave aggressively towards match officials.

Perhaps, too, if footballers watched more Rugby Union they would realise that it is possible to show respect to officials even when decisions do not go in their favour.

John W Smith

Gloucester