Mike Newell, the manager of Luton Town, now faces the prospect of a Football Association disciplinary inquiry over his criticism of Amy Rayner.

Former players for the England Women’s team and senior female officials at the FA rounded on Mr Newell after Luton’s match against Queens Park Rangers on Saturday. Ms Rayner acted as a lineswoman — known as an assistant referee.

After his side lost 3-2, Mr Newell said: “She should not be here. I know that sounds sexist but I am sexist. We have a problem in this country with political correctness and bringing women into the game is not the way to improve refereeing and officialdom.”

When The Times contacted her last night, Ms Rayner said that she was happy to talk but that she would need authorisation to do so from her employers, the Football Association.

The FA, however, said that it had told Ms Rayner not to speak publicly about Mr Newell’s comments. A spokesman said her silence was advisable given that disciplinary action may be taken against Mr Newell over his remarks.

Marianne Spacey, a former England international, said: “It’s a big, big step for some women to get into football. So much is being done to encourage them and this comment will mean some women will shy away.”

Ms Spacey is the girls’ and women’s development officer at Worcester FA, and part of her job is to convince women that they have nothing to fear from senior men in the game.

An estimated £1 million is spent annually on promoting women in football. In 2002, football overtook hockey and netball as the biggest participation sport for women and girls.

There are 10,000 FA affiliated women’s teams and 133,000 registered female players. In 1993 there were 100 teams and 10,000 players.

Karen Bailey, who is a Surrey County FA general secretary, said: “There are too few referees for grassroots football in this country and so it is important women are encouraged to become involved.

“Obviously, Mike Newell does not have a problem finding officials available for his games but it’s different for us.

“In fact, women referees often work better when officiating in men’s games, as the men cut back on bad language when there is a woman in charge.”

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