Perhaps Tiote Should Read The Rule Book

Last updated : 05 March 2013 By Footy Mad - Editor

Cheick Tiote believes that his reputation leads to unfair treatment from referees in the Premier League.

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Tiote was booked for the 12th time this season in Saturday's 1-0 defeat to Swansea City, and it is something many of us have come to expect.

He has been booked 41 times since joining Newcastle in 2010.

He is a throw back to the 1970s, and it's always pleasing to see any Newcastle United player show the passion of 'Big Bad' John McNamee or Frank Clark.

But times have changed - and so have the rules.

Apparently, it is no longer acceptable to clatter a player 4ft in the air and leave him in a pile on the pitch.

The Ivory Coast international believes that he scarcely deserved last weekend's caution but has vowed not to let the decision affect his all-action style.

Cheick Tiote (told The Mirror): "I don't know why I was booked. I tried to take the ball but I didn't touch anyone.

"The referee made a decision though and I have to accept that.

"I think sometimes I get punished because people know I have a lot of bookings already in England.

"I think sometimes this happens. On Saturday I wasn't at fault but I got a booking.

"That's football though, I just need to concentrate on my game and not let it affect me.

"I think my discipline is better now than last season. I need to keep doing the same things and to continue to improve in that way."