Drogba's ban

Maybe it's just me, but I was appalled by the behaviour of Chelsea player Didier Drogba after their semi final defeat by Barcelona.

Verbally abusing referees is simply not acceptable and it is high time that football authorities took steps. In this case they have. A 6 match ban and a large fine have been handed down.

This is s step in the right direction, but only a step. Footballers need to understand that like it or not they are role models in society. They are heroes to many, as such their behaviour directly influences a large number of people.

No one questions that society is broken and something needs to be done. Selfish self indulgence, lack of discipline, arrogance, lack of respect for authority, violence are all manifestations of that breakdown.

It would be nice to thionk that footballers would take their role seriously and start to live lives that show a good example to those who follow them. Hold your tongues, stop lashing out, think carefully before being seen drunk at night clubs are just some of the ways that they could make a difference to some.

In terms of football authorities, could I suggest that a draconian clamp down on behaviour would help. For example, a sending off results in an immediate season's ban. A second sending off and you never play again- anywhere.