Soccer:Rio Ferdinand has been charged with violent conduct by the English FA over an incident involving Craig Fagan in the second half of Manchester United's 4-0 win over Hull on Saturday and now faces a three-match ban. In Scotland Rangers striker Nacho Novo was fined for his one-fingered gesture against Aberdeen.
The action was taken after the FA viewed video footage of the incident. The England defender has until 6pm tomorrow evening to respond.
Should Ferdinand decide to appeal the 31-year-old risks an increased ban.
Losing Ferdinand would be a bitter blow for manager Alex Ferguson considering the defender has only just returned from three months out with a back injury.
Although Ferguson felt his first choice defender was not unduly tested against Hull, he accepted Ferdinand’s presence had a galvanising effect on his back four, which he was hoping would continue against rivals Manchester City in tomorrow night’s Carling Cup semi-final second leg.
“Rio’s performance level is important,” said Ferguson. “It is important to have him back because getting the centre-halves fit is key to our progress this season.”
Novo fined for finger gesture
Rangers striker Nacho Novo was today fined €570 and severely censured by a Scottish Football Association disciplinary committee for his one-fingered gesture during November’s Scottish Premier League game at Aberdeen.
The incident took place immediately after the Ibrox club’s 1-0 defeat at Pittodrie on November 28th.
Substitute Novo (30) was also pictured with his shorts lowered.
He did not attend today’s hearing.