Ferguson fined and banned for outburst

Soccer: Manchester United manager Alex Ferguson has been fined €22,000 and given a four-match touchline ban, two of which are…

Soccer:Manchester United manager Alex Ferguson has been fined €22,000 and given a four-match touchline ban, two of which are suspended until the end of the 2010/11 season.

Ferguson admitted a charge of improper conduct after criticising referee Alan Wiley following United's match against Sunderland at Old Trafford.

At today’s hearing Commission chairman Peter Griffiths said: "Each member of the Commission recognised Alex Ferguson's achievements and stature within the game.

"Having said that, it was made clear to 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."

  • Join The Irish Times on WhatsApp and stay up to date

  • What’s making headlines in the rugby world? Listen to The Counter Ruck podcast with Nathan Johns

  • Sign up for push alerts to get the best breaking news, analysis and comment delivered to your phone