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Touchline ban for Ferguson

Pa
Monday 20 October 2003 00:00 BST
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Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson was handed a two-match touchline ban and fined £10,000 today, after being charged with misconduct by the Football Association.

Ferguson received his punishment after a lengthy hearing with FA disciplinary officials at a central Manchester hotel today.

The charge related to an incident in United's 2-1 victory at Newcastle in August when Ferguson was sent to the stands after blasting a touchline tirade at fourth official Jeff Winter.

Ferguson was furious that referee Uriah Rennie failed to penalise Andy O'Brien after the Newcastle defender's challenge on Ryan Giggs when he was clear on goal.

He leapt from his seat in the dug-out and angrily booted a ball before remonstrating with Winter.

United non-executive director Maurice Watkins said on Sky Sports News: "It is fair to say that Sir Alex is a little disappointed with the outcome.

"We are going to reflect on it overnight and decide what we are going to do. It could end here and will only continue if there is an appeal.

"It is never right to make a snap decision after a long day. We will decide overnight."

Asked what the tone of the meeting had been, he said: "There was no aggravation. It was a cordial meeting.

"We had the full opportunity to explain our position. Obviously there was a difference of views. We were left with verdict as it is."

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