THE Football Association have offered their support to referee Howard Webb after his first match at Euro 2008 resulted in death threats from Poland fans.
Webb awarded a last-gasp penalty which saw Austria equalise against Leo Beenhakker's side at Ernst Happel Stadium on Thursday, a decision made for wrestling in the area that has since been backed by UEFA.
FA chief executive Brian Barwick has also been in contact with the Rotherham official to give his support.
"Howard Webb is a top-class referee and has consistently performed at the highest level for several years," said FA director of communications Adrian Bevington. "That is why he is representing England at Euro 2008.
"We were pleased to see UEFA publicly support Howard and it is important The FA also does so.
"Brian Barwick has been in touch with Howard to offer his support and we look forward to him refereeing more games at the tournament."
The day after Webb's decision, Italy conceded a penalty against Romania for a similar type of offence.
UEFA are set to announce the next set of referee appointments for matches at Euro 2008 tomorrow morning.
(reopens)
UEFA hinted at Webb's possible continued presence at the tournament after making him available for interview by the media tomorrow.
ends
FA chief executive Brian Barwick has also been in contact with the Rotherham official to give his support.
"Howard Webb is a top-class referee and has consistently performed at the highest level for several years," said FA director of communications Adrian Bevington. "That is why he is representing England at Euro 2008.
"We were pleased to see UEFA publicly support Howard and it is important The FA also does so.
"Brian Barwick has been in touch with Howard to offer his support and we look forward to him refereeing more games at the tournament."
The day after Webb's decision, Italy conceded a penalty against Romania for a similar type of offence.
UEFA are set to announce the next set of referee appointments for matches at Euro 2008 tomorrow morning.
(reopens)
UEFA hinted at Webb's possible continued presence at the tournament after making him available for interview by the media tomorrow.
ends
Copyright (c) Press Association
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