ROONEY TO BE BANNED

Last updated : 08 August 2006 By Editor

"Wayne Rooney will today be hit with a three-match ban following his sending-off for violent conduct on Manchester United's pre-season tour of Amsterdam.

"Rooney will miss United's first three Premiership games of the season against Fulham, Charlton and Watford after the Dutch FA reported him to the English FA for violent conduct.

"The FA are duty-bound to hit Rooney with the mandatory suspension, which United have already declared they will contest with an official appeal for wrongful dismissal.

"Paul Scholes was also shown a red card but United have no plans to appeal against his dismissal.

"Rooney will attend the FA hearing, likely to take place on Thursday.

"The FA confirmed they will be forced to issue Rooney with a mandatory three-match ban. But the FA's desire to preserve the improved relations with United following Steve McClaren's appointment as England boss could see Rooney's ban reduced."