Rafael Warned And Fined

Rafael has been fined and warned about his behaviour after accepting the FA's improper conduct charge.

The United full-back attended a personal hearing today (Friday) to discuss his dismissal and subsequent reaction during last weekend's 0-0 draw at Tottenham Hotspur.

A statement issued by the FA read as follows:

"At an Independent Regulatory Commission hearing today, Manchester United’s Rafael Da Silva was fined £8,000 and warned as to his future conduct.

"Rafael admitted a charge of improper conduct relating to his behaviour towards match official Mike Dean following his sending off in Manchester United’s game against Tottenham Hotspur on 16 January 2011."

Earlier in the week, Rafael issued an apology for the incident through ManUtd.com. The young Brazilian said: “I’ve accepted the charge because what I did was wrong.

"It happened because I was so frustrated at being sent off in such an important game. I apologise for my behaviour.”

The outcome of today's hearing means that Rafael will miss only one match - tomorrow's home league fixture against Birmingham City. He will be eligible to return on Tuesday night when United travel to Blackpool.