Former Chelsea physio, Eva Carneiro, says she was not requested to appear before the FA to give a statement regarding accusations of sexist comments made by Chelsea manager, Jose Mourinho.
In a statement released today, Carneiro slams the FA for not interviewing to get her side in the dispute.
“I was surprised to learn that the FA was allegedly investigating the incident of 8 August via the press,” the statement read.
“I was at no stage requested by the FA to make a statement. I wonder whether this might be the only formal investigation in this country where the evidence of the individuals involved in the incident was not considered relevant. Choosing to ignore some of the evidence will surely influence the outcome of the findings.
“Last season I had a similar experience at a game at West Ham FC, where I was subject to verbal abuse. Following complaints by the public, the FA produced a communication to the press saying there had been no sexist chanting during this game. At no time was I approached for a statement despite the fact that vile unacceptable, sexually explicit abuse was clearly heard.”
After formally leaving the club last week, she explains that the FA made no attempt to contact her for a statement and have acquitted Mourinho of any wrongdoing.
Carneiro thanked Heather Rabbatts, an independent board member and the head of the FA’s inclusion advisory board, for criticising the governing body for failing to interview the 42-year-old in person.
“It is incidents such as these and the lack of support from the football authorities that make it so difficult for women in the game. I admire what Heather Rabbatts has done and thank her and friends and colleagues who have supported me at this very difficult time.”
Speaking in his prematch press conference Mourinho said: “For the past two months I didn’t open my mouth, and I’m going to keep it like this,” he said. “One day I will speak, but I will choose the day.”
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