No favouritism, says Robson

FORMER Manchester United captain Bryan Robson knows what it feels like to be in Martin Jol’s position – but insists the idea that big clubs are looked on favourably by referees is a myth.

Referee Michael Oliver ruled that Michael Carrick’s last-minute penalty box challenge on Fulham’s Danny Murphy last night was not a foul, though TV replays proved he got it wrong.

As manager of Middlesbrough and West Brom, Robson was on the other end of such decisions and can see why it feels like the big clubs always benefit, but realises there is a reason for that.

“At West Brom, I felt we were badly done to on about eight penalty decisions the season we got relegated,” he said. “But when you assess it, the big clubs get more decisions because they are always pressing and very dominant at home. The ball is in the opposition box far more than your own. That’s why people will always say the big clubs get more decisions than the lower ones.”

Robson was at Old Trafford for the launch of Cancer Research UK’s night-time walking marathon ‘Shine’, a charity that has special poignancy for the former England skipper because 12 months ago he was diagnosed with throat cancer. He has recently been given the all-clear.

“It was a big shock,” said Robson. “But I went to see a specialist, who diagnosed the problem fairly quickly. It is only by seeking the right guidance that I made such a speedy recovery and I would urge anyone experiencing anything they feel is a problem to consult a doctor as soon as possible.”