Sir Alex Handed Touchline Ban

Sir Alex will have to oversee affairs from the stands against Everton (h) and Portsmouth (a) after the United boss was handed a touchline ban at an FA Regulatory Commission hearing on Thursday.

The manager, who admitted the charge of improper conduct, was given a four-game ban for recent comments made about referee Alan Wiley, although two games are suspended until the end of the 2010/11 season. He was also fined £20,000 and warned about his future conduct.

Commission Chairman Peter Griffiths QC said: "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.”

The suspended sanction will be automatically activated should Sir Alex be found guilty of a similar charge before the end of the 2010/11 season. It will be in addition to any sanction imposed for that offence.