Brennan team given more time by ERC
Friday, 9 February 2007 20:12Trevor Brennan must reappear before a independent disciplinary committee on 26 February after his legal team were granted further time to prepare and present their arguments on preliminary matters regarding whether he should face a hearing for allegedly assaulting a supporter.
Brennan was called before disciplinary chiefs in Dublin today following an alleged incident involving an Ulster fan during Toulouse's 28-13 Heineken Cup victory over the Irish province last month.
The former Ireland lock is accused of entering the seating area during the game and punching Patrick Bamford, leaving the 25-year-old accountant requiring medical treatment at the ground and on his return home to London.
His legal team have argued that the eventual outcome of the hearing could prejudice any criminal proceedings in France and affect Brennan's right to silence.
A European Rugby Cup statement read: 'Following an application by Mr Brennan's representatives for further time to prepare and present their arguments on these preliminary matters, the independent Disciplinary Committee agreed to adjourn until Monday, 26 February 2007, when the preliminary matters will be considered.'
Brennan, who had already announced his retirement at the end of the season, claimed he was provoked by derogatory chants during the game.
This is denied by Bamford, who revealed on Wednesday he had instructed a French lawyer to pursue criminal and civil proceedings against Brennan.
He is also taking libel action against a number of news organisations which reported the incident.
