Arne's red mist revealed FA says Slot told referee: 'If we don't win title, I'll blame you'

Arne Slot was close to being banned for the Carabao Cup final after reportedly telling the referee Michael Oliver: "If we don't win the league, I'll fucking blame you," when tempers flared after the final Merseyside derby at Goodison Park.

- Andy Hunter

Slot received a two-match touchline ban after being shown a red card following the 2-2 draw at Everton last month, when James Tarkowski equalised in the 98th minute and a melee erupted after the final whistle.

In the written reasons for Slot's punishment by a Football Association regulatory commission, published yesterday, it is confirmed that Slot would have received a three-match suspension but for his public apology, admitting the charge at the earliest opportunity and having no previous misconduct offence during his short time in English football. A three-game ban would have forced Slot to sit in the stands for the Carabao Cup final against Newcastle on Sunday week, his first Wembley date with the club.