LONDON (AFP) - British Prime Minister Gordon Brown waded into the debate over bad on-pitch behaviour by Premiership footballers Tuesday, saying players must set a good example because young children often copy them.

He spoke out after recent high-profile cases involving Liverpool's Argentinian midfielder Javier Mascherano and Chelsea and England star Ashley Cole forced the issue into the headlines.

"Walk past any playground this week and you will see kids imitating Cristiano Ronaldo's back-heel, Cesc Fabregas's goal celebration or Andy Reid's volley, fresh from watching the weekend's Premiership matches," Brown wrote in the Sun newspaper.

"But sadly, you will also see a few kids imitating some of the other things they have seen: talking back to the referee, swearing or squaring up to each other."

He added: "Whether they like it or not, our footballers have a greater responsibility than anyone else because they are so idolised and respected by our young people."

Mascherano admitted improper conduct and faces a possible three-match ban after berating a referee when he was shown the red card against Manchester United earlier this month.

He effectively had to be dragged from the pitch by coaching staff.

Cole also faced widespread criticism after turning his back on a referee while being booked in a 4-4 draw against Tottenham a few days before.

Brown hailed Rio Ferdinand, Steven Gerrard and John Terry -- all frontrunners to be permanent England captain under new manager Fabio Capello - as players who "lead by example" and would be good role models.

He added there was a "big role" for team captains in helping to improve behaviour, suggesting that they could be disciplined alongside players if their team gangs up on a referee.