Real Madrid surprised by UEFA investigation
Spanish giants Real Madrid claimed that they were surprised to hear that the UEFA is to investigate charges of improper conduct levied against them.
The claims came after Xabi Alonso and Sergio Ramos were each sent off after picking up their second yellow cards in the side's 4-0 UEFA Champions League group stage win over Dutch outfit Ajax on Tuesday 23 November.
As a result, the players will miss Madrid's last game of the group stage, a game which means relatively little to Los Blancos as they have already won the group, but will have their disciplinary slate wiped clean for the first knockout stage.
2010 FIFA World Cup winner Alonso received his second booking for time-wasting when he took too long to take a free-kick in the 87th minute, while defender Ramos was sent off for a similar situation at a goal-kick.
It was suggested after the game that manager Jose Mourinho had told the duo to ensure they received their marching orders.
A statement released by Madrid says, “Real Madrid expresses its surprise for (the) decision. (Madrid) understands it does not follow the content of UEFA's Disciplinary Regulations."
In UEFA's disciplinary charter, it is stated that extended suspensions could be handed out in the case of unsporting conduct.
The governing body of European football is also probing the parts played by Madrid captain and goalkeeper Iker Casillas and his deputy Jerzy Dudek after both were reportedly seen passing on instructions to Ramos.
The hearing into the matter will take place on Tuesday 30 November.
However, Ramos has claimed he did nothing wrong. He told his club's official website, "My being sent off against Ajax is of no concern. It is a thing of the past. It's time to move on and to think about the (El Clasico game against Barcelona this weekend).
I am not worried about any repercussions, because I don't think I broke any rules."
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