FIFA are set to scrap the controversial yellow cards branded as ‘unfair’ by Scotland manager Steve Clarke as they hand teams a clean slate going into March’s World Cup qualifying playoffs.
According to ESPN, world football’s governing body is set to approve the change after complaints from a number of nations about the potential for players to miss the playoff finals after picking up only a single booking so far in qualifying.
GLASGOW, SCOTLAND – SEPTEMBER 04: Steve Clarke, Head Coach of Scotland looks on during the 2022 FIFA World Cup Qualifier match between Scotland and Moldova at Hampden Park on September 04, 2021 in Glasgow, Scotland. (Photo by Ian MacNicol/Getty Images)
Several Scotland players find themselves walking a disciplinary tightrope ahead of the playoffs and UEFA are now canvassing FAs to see what they want done after some raised the issue with the European governing body.
Speaking to ESPN, a UEFA spokesperson confirmed they would be lobbying the twelve nations involved in the playoffs and passing the information on to FIFA:
“Some national associations qualified for the FIFA World Cup playoffs raised the issue.” UEFA said. “This is a FIFA competition and they decide on regulations. UEFA will collect the opinion of the 12 associations participating in the FIFA playoffs and will pass this information onto FIFA.”
The Scotland boss had complained before the Denmark game that the fact some teams played more games than others was unfair, with Scotland playing ten games compared to others who played eight.
Wales boss Robert Page echoed Clarke’s feelings after his side secured a seeded berth in the playoffs and it appears FIFA and UEFA have now taken notice.
“It’s classed by FIFA as part of the UEFA qualifying,” Clarke said.
“Is it fair? Probably the most unfair part of it.
“We play 10 group games and other teams play eight over the course of qualifying and the yellow cards still count the same.
“I am not sure how that’s seen as fair.
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