Blackpool boss wants to see respect towards match officials

It comes after referee Darren Drysdale made the headlines in midweek after clashing with Ipswich Town midfielder Alan Judge.

Drysdale has apologised for squaring up and locking heads with Judge during Ipswich’s goalless draw against Northampton Town.

The official, who admitted in a statement that he did not “maintain his composure”, has since been charged with improper conduct by the FA.

“It is unusual because you very, very rarely ever see anything like that,” Critchley said.

“At first, I was shocked. I had to watch it again to check if it really happened. Then you try and look at the scenario and the context and why it might have happened.

“It’s an emotional game and he obviously just lost his head, lost his bearings, just lost his emotions for a split second.

“It was unusual and I think you could see from the reaction of the players that they didn’t know how to react either.

“But he’s come out and apologised and Alan Judge has handled it well as well, because he’s come out and said he was never going to take it any further.

“It’s done and dusted now and it’s finished with.”

Drysdale booked Judge for simulation as players from both sides pulled him away, before sending off Ipswich midfielder Flynn Downes for using offensive language a couple of minutes later.

Ipswich boss Paul Lambert has since called on the EFL to investigate the incident.

“If you’re looking at a wider picture, and I’m not talking about this incident specifically, everyone has to look at how they conduct themselves,” Critchley added.

“There’s a level of discipline and respect that is required from everyone.

“How you speak to people on the pitch during the game, how you speak to the fourth official, it’s really important.

“I think I’ve been well educated and well brought up on that side and I know that’s the values of what we stand for as a football club.

“It’s important you represent yourself and the club in a way that is beholding of the club.

“You can only look after your own and control your own, but I think everyone has a duty as a professional in the spotlight to make sure you behave properly.”

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