United's delaying tactics move on to a higher plane

THIS MORNING'S game has a little extra spice Manchester United are now going to arbitration to get the season extended.

Liverpool are dead set against the idea, but last year's champions are determined to take the season beyond May 11th to ease their fixture congestion.

So after the Premier League turned down United's request, the club appealed to the FA. But yesterday Lancaster Gate said the matter was outside their jurisdiction.

United disagree, and have invoked FA rules under which a panel of three arbitrators will decide if the FA do have the power to adjudicate. This will take place next week.

If United are again rebuffed by the arbitrators or ultimately by the FA, they say they will review their options. This could include a form of legal action.

The panel will come from an FA list of arbitrators. United will pick one, the FA another and these two will pick a third arbitrator who will be legally qualified.

Liverpool insisted yesterday they will not fight Robbie Fowler's suspension through the courts.

Fowler faces a three match ban after being sent off for violent conduct along with Everton's David Unsworth during the 1-1 draw in the Merseyside derby at Goodison Park on Wednesday.

Referee Stephen Lodge, whose report was received by the Football Association yesterday, dished out red cards to both players with eight minutes remaining. It means the England striker will bring the curtain down on his Premiership season today in the top of the table clash with Manchester United.