The Head Coach of Hyundai A-League Western Sydney Wanderers FC, Tony Popovic has been fined $3,000 and issued a formal reprimand after being found to have breached the FFA National Code of Conduct.

Popovic was asked by FFA to explain a statement he made in the post-match interview with Fox Sports after the Hyundai A-League Round 6 match between Western Sydney Wanderers FC and Melbourne Victory on Saturday, 12 November 2016.

In determining the appropriate sanction, FFA took into account that this was Popovic’s first breach of the Code.

“Consistent with my comments previously made around the sanction of Kevin Muscat it is important that all players and coaches consider their words carefully when offering their thoughts post match,“ said Head of Hyundai A-League Greg O’Rourke.

“Any comments direct or implied that reflect on the integrity of a referee are unacceptable and will be acted upon in line with our code of conduct. Respect towards match officials is not a nice thing to have, it is a fundamental of our game required at every level.”

Popovic has 7 business days to appeal FFA’s determination, should he wish to do so.