Ferdinand Drops Ban Appeal

Manchester United defender Rio Ferdinand has withdrawn his appeal against an extra one-match ban following his clash with Craig Fagan.

The new England captain was charged with violent conduct last month after an incident with Hull City striker Fagan at OId Trafford.

Ferdinand denied the charge and was handed an additional one-game ban for a frivolous appeal on top of his original three-game suspension.

Although the 31-year-old initially appealed against the extra punishment he has now accepted the verdict, meaning he will not risk facing a fifth game out.

Ferdinand will now miss United's upcoming Premier League matches against Aston Villa and Everton.

Sir Alex Ferguson will have Ferdinand available for their Carling Cup final against Villa having served the second game of his ban at the weekend against Portsmouth.