Reading FC's assistant kit manager Richard Bone has been given a six-match stadium ban, fined £200 and ordered to complete an education course after admitting homophobic abuse directed at a match referee. The sanctions were imposed by the Football Association following an incident during a League One fixture.
The abuse occurred in the 40th minute of Reading's 2-0 defeat to Huddersfield Town on August 9. Bone was overheard by fourth official Harrison Blair making a derogatory comment about referee Matt Corlett, saying: "He should be in the National League. He has sucked d*** to get to this level." He admitted the charge and did not contest the case at a hearing.
Reading issued a statement acknowledging the outcome: "The club respects and supports the outcome of the regulatory commission process and acknowledges the importance of maintaining the highest standards of conduct within the game. Richard has accepted responsibility for his actions and will now serve the sanctions imposed. Throughout this period, the club will support Richard in undertaking the required education programme and rehabilitation, with a focus on learning, accountability and personal development."
Bone has served as assistant kit manager at Reading since January 2023, having previously held similar roles at Colchester United, Wealdstone and Chesham United. In his report, Corlett explained that he was informed of the comment after the match by Reading's head of safety, who identified Bone. The referee noted that Bone was not listed on the team sheet and should not have been positioned near the tunnel. The incident was reported due to its homophobic nature, with assistant referees Andrew Bennett and Greg Read also present in the changing room when the matter was relayed.
