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United boss Alex Ferguson reacts - Source: Reuters -
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Manchester United manager Alex Ferguson was handed a four-match
touchline ban, two of which were suspended, and fined 20,000 pounds
($45,040) by the English FA for insulting referee Alan Wiley last
month.
At a personal hearing in London, Ferguson, 67, admitted a charge of
improper conduct for questioning Wiley's suitability to officiate
following United's 2-2 draw with Sunderland at Old Trafford on
October 3.
Ferguson said Wiley was not fit enough to referee the game.
Peter Griffiths, the chairman of the FA's Regulatory Commission
told the FA's website: "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 criticised Wiley in a television interview, saying "He was
not fit enough for a game of that standard."
"The pace of the game demanded a referee who was fit. It is an
indictment of our game. You see referees abroad who are as fit as
butcher's dogs," Ferguson said.
"We have some who are fit. He wasn't fit. He was taking 30 seconds
to book a player. He was needing a rest. It was ridiculous."
Ferguson also criticised referee Martin Atkinson after Manchester
United lost 1-0 at Chelsea in the Premier League on Sunday.
"You lose faith in the refereeing sometimes - that's the way the
players are talking in there," he said after the match.
The FA, however, said he would not be facing action from them over
those comments.
