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A smart Alex.

Sir Alex Ferguson was given a four match touchline ban and a fine for 20,000 pounds following his attack on Alan Wiley's fitness. But the referees union is still baying for evermore blood. Here is Alan Leighton of Prospect, the referees union.

"From our point of view it is disappointing. The Football Association had a chance to make a point and they flunked it," Leighton said. "We don't think this is sending the right message out to other managers.

The simmering anger felt at Man Utd because of Sir Alex's attack is palpable. It is one thing, criticizing a referee's decisions. Making fun of his physiognomy is beyond the pale. The union is drawing the line on the cheap shot. As already seen in the Chelsea match, he can rant and rave all he wants. But nobody seems to be buying.