Ian Holloway: Swindon Town coach criticizes Ollie Clarke’s ban

Swindon Town manager Ian Holloway has criticized FA officials after captain Ollie Clarke was suspended 24 hours before Saturday’s League Two clash with Barrow.

The Robins were fined £1,000 for fielding Clarke in an EFL Cup tie at Luton, believing the seven-match ban he faced at the time did not apply to that competition.

Holloway was also angry when he was told on Friday that his captain had been banned for one match and would not be allowed to play against Barrow.

He told BBC Radio Wiltshire: “We were dealt a devastating blow when I was told at five o’clock that my captain would not be able to play after we had prepared with him in the team.”

“I have contacted the League Managers’ Association to complain – I think this is unprofessional.

“They want to fine me? Okay! They want to ban me? Okay! Do it. Take a look for yourselves, every one of you. It’s absolutely disgusting.”

“Whether I get another match or not, I don’t really care anymore.”

On Monday, Swindon could face further penalties from the Premier League for Clarke’s foul and the use of Aaron Drennan as a substitute when his name was not on the team sheet.

The club says officials should have made the selections clear before kick-off, but they could still be excluded from the Premier League Cup.

“It’s a siege mentality in my head now, completely and utterly,” Holloway added. “And if Luton qualify, I wish you good luck. We beat you fair and square.”