DERBY County keeper Stephen Bywater could be charged with a criminal offence after he was interviewed by police following Saturday's Championship game at Portman Road.

By Elvin King

DERBY County keeper Stephen Bywater could be charged with a criminal offence after he was interviewed by police following Saturday's Championship game at Portman Road.

Officers from Suffolk Constabulary and Derbyshire Police questioned the former West Ham man regarding his clash with Ipswich Town defender Alex Bruce after they were both leaving the field after being handed red cards.

A number of other players got involved and stewards rushed to the scene.

Bywater is also still in line to be charged by the FA after pushing Bruce and having to be restrained before the two players reached the tunnel.

Rams manager Billy Davies, who was sent to the stands after straying on to pitch a minute later, accompanied his keeper during the post-match interrogation.

Davies said: “After looking at the footage I believe maybe two yellow cards were in order.

“The red cards sparked off a frenzy of activity, whereas yellow cards would have diffused the situation.

“I have then been sent to the stands for, I believe, entering the field of play. You see the inconsistency in it all when you see Mr Wenger and Mr Mourinho running 45 yards on to the field of play and nothing happens.

“It is disappointing as it did not merit what actually ended up taking place. We will have to take a look at the incidents again before deciding what to do next.”

Town manager Jim Magilton said: “My first reaction was that the two red cards were harsh and I will have another look at it.

“If Alex has been out order, I will fine him heavily but if we think we have a case for appeal, we will do that.

“Referees sometimes don't understand the importance of the occasion.

“Perhaps if he had spoken to them and given yellow cards that would have been enough, but maybe he saw something that I didn't see.”