FA punish United boss Ferguson with ban and fine

By Mike Collett

LONDON (Reuters) - Manchester United manager Alex Ferguson was handed a four-match touchline ban, two of which were suspended, and fined 20,000 pounds by the FA on Thursday for insulting referee Alan Wiley last month.

At a personal hearing in London, Ferguson, 67, admitted a charge of improper conduct for questioning Wiley's suitability to officiate following United's 2-2 draw with Sunderland at Old Trafford on October 3.

Ferguson said Wiley was not fit enough to referee the game.

Peter Griffiths, the chairman of the FA Regulatory Commission, told the FA website (www.thefa.com): "Each member of the Commission recognised Sir Alex Ferguson's achievements and stature within the game.

"Having said that, it was made clear to Sir Alex that with such stature comes increased responsibilities.

"The Commission considered his admitted remarks, in the context in which they were made, were not just improper but were grossly improper and wholly inappropriate. He should never have said what he did say."

Alan Leighton, head of the referees' union Prospect, said Ferguson had got off lightly.

"From our point of view, it is disappointing," he told the BBC. "The Football Association had a chance to make a point and they flunked it.