Ferguson hit with FA fine and ban

[Farstrider]

Looks like "The Gaffer" will have to start keeping his yap shut, or more will follow!

Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson has received a two-match touchline ban for his comments about referee Alan Wiley's fitness.

The Football Association handed the 67-year-old a four-game ban, with two of those suspended until the end of the 2010/11 season.

Ferguson has also been fined ?20,000 and warned about his future conduct.

He made disparaging remarks about Wiley's fitness after his side's 2-2 draw with Sunderland on 3 October.

Ferguson apologised to the official for any embarrassment caused and pleaded guilty to the FA's charge of improper conduct, but requested a personal hearing.

Peter Griffiths QC, chairman of the FA's four-man regulatory commission, said: "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."

Ferguson will serve the touchline ban in his side's forthcoming Premier League matches at home to Everton on 21 November and away at Portsmouth on 28 November.

BBC Sports [Full Story]

Edited November 13, 2009 by Farstrider

[Subject Delta]

Lets hope this serves as a warning to everyone else who criticises referees in such an unnecessary manner. Having said that, I do feel there is a question mark over the standard of premier league refereeing at this moment in time.

[JoeC]

Frank Fontaine slapped with touchline ban for criticising referees.

Should have served as a warning to you, mate :p

[Dance.]

Well deserved but yet, crap referees are crap. Cost us 6 points so far (big 4) :cry:.