AIFF suspends Kerala Blasters coach again — this time for anti-referee remarks

The game, which was played at Kochi’s Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium, ended in a 3-3 draw with Blasters making a comeback after lagging by two goals.

“We are happy that we could get back (in the game) at the end. But from the beginning, we are frustrated with the referee’s decision. We are tired of talking about it. So, I hope that these guys (referees) improve and will be capable of managing the game, especially in these kinds of moments,” Vukomanovic told the media.

“I want to stay optimistic and I’m always ready to help. But I am sorry it (refereeing) is ugly. It will kill the spirit of the game. Many people sitting at home will say it’s better to change the channel,” the former Serbian defender said.

Highlighting an offside situation and a questionable goal scored by Chennaiyin FC, Vukomanovic reportedly said,  “It was in front of the bench. The (Chennaiyin FC) player was offside and another player was influencing the goalkeeper. The referees did not react at that time (first goal).”

Without putting the onus completely on the AIFF referees, the coach noted it as a systemic problem, pointing a finger at their training.

“These referees are not capable of managing the game, but in the end, it’s not their fault. It is the fault of the guys who are educating them and giving them a chance to be on the pitch. I am sorry, but this year, the playoffs, trophies, whatever it is, won’t be decided by the teams. It will be decided by the referees,” he reportedly remarked.

Also read: Kerala Blasters’ fans see red as club promotes ‘Colours of Love’

Vukomanovic’s previous suspension

Vukomanovic courted controversy and faced suspension earlier in the year when he led his team off the pitch against Bengaluru FC on 3 March over an “illegitimate” freekick.

Subsequently, the disciplinary committee handed him a 10-match suspension from the AIFF-organised tournaments and a fine of ₹5 lakh.

The AIFF committee also imposed ₹4 crore fine on Blasters for forfeiting the ISL eliminator match.

In May, it rejected Kerala Blasters FC’s appeal against the ₹4 crore fine imposed on them for misconduct and for abandoning an ISL playoff match.

The committee also rejected KBFC’s head coach Ivan Vukumanovic’s appeal against the fine of ₹5 lakh and the 10-game.

Also read: ‘#FootballHasNoGender,’ says Manjappada as Blasters scrap women’s team to pay AIFF fine