Norwich’s Martin Olsson facing heavy suspension over pushing referee

Martin Olsson, right, of Norwich City is shown the red card by referee Simon Hooper during the Championship match between Wolverhampton Wanderers and Norwich City at the Molineux Stadium on August 10, 2014 in Wolverhampton, England. (Photo by Robin Parker/Getty Images)Show less

Norwich defender Martin Olsson could face a heavy suspension after being charged with pushing referee Simon Hooper during Saturday’s defeat at Wolves.

Norwich’s first competitive outing since their relegation from the Premier League proved eventful, and the Football Association charge of improper conduct against Olsson capped a weekend to forget.

The Sweden international, who has been linked with a move before the end of the transfer window, appearing to push referee Hooper after he was shown a second yellow card on the hour mark.

Norwich were also moved on Monday to warn supporters they face life bans if found guilty of racism after Canaries fans raised complaints about the behaviour of two of their own number during the Molineux game. Anti-discrimination campaign group Kick It Out praised the fans who identified the alleged culprits.

Wolves stewards were alerted to an incident towards the end of the game in the visitors’ end, with allegations being made against two individuals.

Kick It Out said in a statement: “Kick It Out praises Norwich City supporters for reporting an alleged racist incident which occurred in the away end during the fixture against Wolverhampton Wanderers at Molineux.

“Self-policing by supporters is a crucial factor in the ongoing battle to eradicate all forms of discrimination from the stands and it is greatly encouraging that Norwich fans reported this behaviour so swiftly.

“We also welcome the actions of the Wolves safety team that promptly identified the perpetrators, and commend both clubs for the strong stances they have taken following the incident.

“We have since offered Wolves and Norwich our assistance and support on the matter, and now await the outcome of any police investigation with the evidence provided.”

Olsson may find he sits out a long run of games if found guilty of the charge levelled at him.

It was as the 26-year-old started to make his way off the pitch at Molineux that the alleged transgression took place.

A statement on the FA’s website said: ‘’It is alleged that Olsson’s action in making physical contact with the referee immediately prior to being shown a red card and for his behaviour as he left the field of play amounted to improper conduct, which occurred outside the jurisdiction of the match officials. Olsson has until 6pm on 14 August 2014 to respond to the charge.”

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