Northern Premier League chairman Mark Harris is at the centre of investigations by the Football Association and his own organisation after he allegedly sent an abusive email to an FC United of Manchester fan over a controversial decision to change the venue for a crucial end-of-season game.
Aled Duckfield emailed Harris complaining about the NPL’s decision to switch the location of FC United’s match with Stockton Town to nearby Curzon Ashton on 21 April.
The game has been repeatedly postponed due to pitch issues with FC United’s Broadhurst Park ground.
In his email to Harris, Duckfield called the decision “diabolical” and accused the NPL of “incompetence” and a “lack of governance”.
Harris’ alleged reply contained abusive language aimed at Duckfield, who said he was “shocked” by the response.
Harris has refused to comment on the alleged email, but BBC Sport has been told he reported himself to the FA.
The FA said: “We can confirm that we are investigating this matter. As this is an ongoing process, we are not in a position to provide further comment.”
The NPL said: “Following a reported communication between chairman Mark Harris and a member of the public, the League can confirm it is actively investigating this serious matter, with an urgent meeting convened for Friday morning.”
Harris is a highly-respected figure within football and was appointed NPL chairman in 2009. He also serves on the FA’s National Leagues Pyramid Board.
FC United argue the decision to move the match against Stockton could affect their title chances – they would go top if they win their game in hand – and also affects them significantly from a financial perspective.
The club lost at Broadhurst Park to title rival Hednesford Town on Monday and have a further league match, a local derby against Hyde United on 18 April, which has not been moved.
The NPL feel they cannot afford to risk a postponement given the season ends on 25 April and the outstanding game has significant implications for both the title and play-off pictures.
FC United suggested having a pitch inspection at Broadhurst Park the day before the game and switching if the surface was deemed unplayable or the match was at risk. This was rejected by NPL.
“The language used in the email attributed to the NPL Chair is clearly completely unacceptable – however it is reflective of the attitude that so many involved in the governance of the game have towards supporters,” said an FC United spokesperson.
“It also raises fundamental questions among supporters about whether decisions involving FC United can be approached with the true impartiality that the role demands. On the face of this email, many will be understandably concerned.
“We will be seeking urgent clarification from the Northern Premier League.”
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