Man United coach ban and fine confirmed as FA release statement after appeal

The Football Association (FA) has confirmed that Darren Fletcher's ban and fine have been reduced to two matches and £6,000 respectively.

It was alleged that around the tunnel area during United's 2-1 win over Brentford, that the coach acted in an 'in an improper and/or confrontational manner and/or that he used abusive and/or insulting words towards the fourth official and the referee and/or assistant referees'.

The flashpoint occurred after United fell behind with Matthijs de Ligt off the pitch and receiving treatment. Fletcher was in the press box with the Old Trafford analysts before he made his way down to the tunnel before half-time.

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Both then-manager Erik ten Hag and assistant coach Ruud van Nistelrooy were booked for their protests. However, in a judgement from the FA, the former United midfielder and Scotland international was initially charged £7,500 and handed a three-match extended touchline ban after admitting to the charge but argued it was only towards the fourth official.

The referee Samuel Barrott also denied that the first-team coach was abusive and an independent appeal board has reduced the touchline ban and fine. As a result, Fletcher has been hit with a £6,000 sanction and a two-match ban.

In a statement, the FA said: "An independent Appeal Board has allowed an appeal by Darren Fletcher in relation to misconduct at Manchester United’s fixture against Brentford on Saturday 19 October in the Premier League.

"The FA alleged that around the tunnel area at half time the coach acted in an improper and/or confrontational manner