Final Football Forums - League Cup against Arsenal

Jun-Lei

12-03-2004, 08:25 AM

And the casualties:

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Fuming Fergie demands FA clear up disciplinary confusion

MANCHESTER, England, Dec 3 (AFP) - Fuming Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson has demanded that the Football Association clarify their disciplinary guidelines.

The call came after the FA rebuffed Ferguson's demand for action against Arsenal's Robin van Persie over his attempt to elbow United winger Kieran Richardson during Wednesday's League Cup tie.

Although Van Persie did not make contact, his intent was clear and he was booked by referee Mark Halsey. In contrast, Aston Villa's Lee Hendrie was sent off at Manchester City last weekend -- and banned for three matches -- for aiming a head butt at Danny Mills which also did not make contact.

"It's not a matter of being disappointed about the FA not taking action (against van Persie), more that we need clarification over their disciplinary process," Ferguson said Friday.

"There is a lot of puzzlement about how the system works, how it is conducted and how they reach their conclusions.

"All managers are confused about the situation, especially when you think Lee Hendrie was given a three-match ban for intent.

"Managers just don't know how the procedures are working."

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Kleberson ruled out until New Year

MANCHESTER, England, Dec 3 (AFP) - Brazilian midfielder Kleberson has been ruled out of action until the New Year after incurring an ankle injury in Manchester United's midweek League Cup win over Arsenal.

The World Cup winner was carried off on a stretcher during the 1-0 win at Old Trafford. The damage is not as serious as first feared but United boss Sir Alex Ferguson confirmed Friday that the player would miss the next four weeks.

Kleberson joins French striker Louis Saha (knee) on the sidelines but United are otherwise at full strength for Saturday's Premiership clash with Southampton.

The Red Devils have won their last six matches in all competitions and are unbeaten in eight.