Kewell in trouble after ref accuses him of insults

BERLIN, June 19 (Reuters) Australian winger Harry Kewell could be suspended for his team's final group match against Croatia on Thursday after he was accused today of insulting a World Cup referee.

German referee Markus Merk has alleged that the 27-year-old insulted him several times after the final whistle of Australia's 2-0 defeat to Brazil in Munich yesterday.

Kewell was not booked by the referee, but Merk put the incident in his official report to FIFA and the matter will be dealt with by FIFA's disciplinary committee today or tomorrow.

FIFA spokesman Markus Siegler confirmed that the case was being dealt with by the disciplinary body who have the ultimate decision when it comes to deciding on the length of suspensions at the World Cup.

Siegler also confirmed that the case against Italian midfielder Daniele De Rossi would be heard by the disciplinary committee by June 23.

De Rossi was shown an instant red card for elbowing Brian McBride in the face during Italy's 1-1 draw with the United States on Saturday.

He will definitely miss Italy's final group match against the Czech Republic in Hamburg on Thursday, but is also likely to be banned for longer.

FIFA also confirmed that Czech defender Tomas Ujfalusi, who was sent off in their 2-0 defeat to Ghana on Saturday would also be be banned for the match against Italy.

REUTERS AY HT1622