Hackett can't believe Ivanovic escaped punishment for choke on McCarthy

The PL is no longer a structure for sport but for theatre – and in a theatre the script is written in advance. Man Utd even call their stadium the 'theatre of dreams' – the irony couldn't be sweeter.

Don't be surprised, Keith, just depressed – depressed at what you and the rest of the footballing establishment in this country have helped to create.

Rooney offside for first, Fellaini pushes defender for second, and Rooney dives in penalty area for third!

Onwards and upwards...!

Philippe Mexes: Milan defender sent off amid Serie A brawl (http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/30974266)

If you look at the 2 images of the Mexes and Ivanovic assaults side by side, you would see how similar they are. However, the outcomes were entirely different: "AC Milan defender Philippe Mexes was sent off on Saturday during his team's 3-1 defeat at Lazio after grabbing Lazio captain Stefano Mauri by the throat. The pair were separated but Frenchman Mexes went back for more, first trying to head-butt Mauri before grabbing him from behind.

"I have to apologise to the club, the coach and my family," Mexes said afterwards. "It was the wrong reaction and I am sorry because I left the team with 10 men and I will be suspended.

"Unfortunately I made a mistake. In my career I have had these reactions. These things should not happen out on a football pitch. I have children and this is not the sort of example that a father should set."

At least in this case, the footballer involved was made to realise his mistake and he will surely think twice before repeating it. And he seems to be repentant.

In Ivanovic's case, the guy has got off scot-free and many young children will think "Hey, there is nothing wrong if I grab hold of my opponent's throat".

Shameful conduct by the referee and the FA.