Fergie hit with touchline ban and fine

Alex Ferguson has been handed a two-match touchline ban and fined £10,000 (€14,000) by the Football Association for misconduct.

Ferguson was deemed to be abusive to match officials during Manchester United’s Premiership clash at Newcastle in August.

The United chief was sent into 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 after today's decision: "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.”