Andy Mangan, the Bristol Rovers coach, is facing an FA prosecution after allegedly making a homophobic remark to an Argyle staff member during a game in October.
Bristol Rovers will fight an FA accusation brought against first-team coach Andy Mangan after he was accused of making homophobic remarks to a Plymouth Argyle staff member.
It comes after the two clubs met in League One on October 22 at the Memorial Stadium, when Rovers trailed 2-0 at halftime but rallied back to draw 2-2.
“Bristol Rovers FC’s assistant manager, Andy Mangan, has been charged with a breach of FA Rule E3 that allegedly occurred at their EFL League One match against Plymouth Argyle FC on Saturday 22 October 2022.”
“It is alleged that his language and/or conduct towards a Plymouth Argyle FC staff member during half-time of that match was abusive and/or insulting, in violation of FA Rule E3.1.”
“It is also claimed that his actions constituted a ‘aggravated breach,’ as defined in FA Rule 3.2, because they included a reference, whether express or implied, to sexual orientation.” Andy Mangan has until Wednesday, December 21, 2022, to respond.”
Bristol Live, Plymouth Live’s sister publication, “understands it revolves around an incident during Joey Barton’s half-time team talk, when Mangan and captain Paul Coutts allegedly caught a member of Plymouth’s matchday staff filming around the back door of the Rovers changing room.” When challenged by members of Barton’s squad after the game, Plymouth’s coaching staff denied the individual was under direction from anybody.”
When contacted by Plymouth Live, Argyle declined to comment, while Rovers published their own statement on the FA charge against Mangan this afternoon.
“Bristol Rovers can confirm that first-team coach Andy Mangan will challenge the FA’s decision to charge him, with the club’s full support,” it said.
“All parties were taken aback yesterday when they learned that Mr Mangan had been charged under Rule E3.2, given the lack of evidence to support the allegation.”
“Mr Mangan believes the allegation, which he strongly denies, is completely false, and the alleged homophobic behavior is completely reprehensible.” Given the absurdity of the accusation, he is outraged that the FA has decided to prosecute him.
“However, he looks forward to clearing his name and hopes that the FA will withdraw the charge as soon as possible.”
“Bristol Rovers is committed to being fully inclusive for all and opposes all forms of homophobia.”
Meanwhile, Argyle have been drawn away to Bristol Rovers in the Papa Johns Trophy quarter-finals if they beat AFC Wimbledon at Home Park on Wednesday, December 21 (7pm).
