© EuroFootball.com
The strategist Sir Alex Ferguson did not appeal to the Football Association (FA) for the five-match ban imposed on him. One of the most famous European coaches was unhappy with the work of referee Martin Atkinson in this month's match against Chelsea and after the game on the club's television he said: "Such matches require a fair and strong referee. We did not get that." The FA found him guilty of misconduct and imposed a three-match ban, with two additional matches being missed because last year he questioned another referee, Alan Wiley's physical condition. The Scotsman had to behave for a certain period of time to avoid punishment, but did not comply. Ferguson will watch from the stands the English championship matches against West Ham, Fulham, Everton, and Arsenal, as well as the FA Cup semi-final against Man City. He will be able to lead the team again from the bench in the match against Arsenal taking place in May.
