UEFA ban Rooney for two games, while SFA give Lennon three
The 19-year-old England international, who has recently had his temperament questioned after appearing to argue with David Beckham in the defeat to Northern Ireland, will miss the matches against Benfica and Lille.
Rooney was initially cautioned by Nielsen during the opening round of Champions League group matches, but he received a second yellow card for clapping in the official’s face.
The UEFA statement said: “The referee considered this dissent and also reported in his post-match report that Rooney swore at him as he left the field.”
United could contest the referee’s accusation of swearing, and an appeal must be lodged by midnight on Friday.
UEFA’s control and disciplinary body issued a statement which read: “It is beyond any doubt that Wayne Rooney committed several disciplinary offences, notably by taking two yellow cards resulting in a red card, as well as by displaying unsporting conduct.
“As a result, it is appropriate to impose a two-match ban for the reported misconduct.”
The news comes as a blow to United manager Alex Ferguson, who has Gabriel Heinze out for the season and Roy Keane missing for two months, both through injury.
Despite concerns over his discipline, Rooney has enjoyed a good start to the season, scoring four goals in all competitions as United have gone unbeaten in pursuit of champions Chelsea.
He also collected the FIFPro world young player of the year award, and said at the London ceremony: “I love playing football, I enjoy it and I want to win every game. I hope I am here next year.”
Celtic have expressed their satisfaction with the three-match ban imposed on Neil Lennon by the Scottish Football Association over his confrontation with referee Stuart Dougal last month.
The former Northern Ireland international was dismissed after the final whistle in the Hoops’ 3-1 defeat at Rangers on August 20.
The 34-year-old aggressively confronted the match official sparking fears of a lengthy suspension.
But Lennon has escaped serious punishment due to his previous good record with Celtic.
A Celtic spokesman said: “We are pleased that we received a fair and balanced hearing.
“We are satisfied with the process, today’s outcome and pleased that common sense has prevailed.”
Lennon will begin his suspension in the CIS Insurance Cup third round tie with Falkirk tomorrow before missing the Bank of Scotland Premier League matches against Inverness Caledonian Thistle and Livingston.
CONNECT WITH US TODAY
Be the first to know the latest news and updates
