FA will fine Manchester United £25k for indiscipline against Chelsea

Manchester United will receive a £25,000 fine after picking up seven yellow cards at Chelsea yesterday.

Sir Alex Ferguson was left biting his lip in frustration following Mike Riley's performance at Stamford Bridge, claiming there had not been a bad tackle in the game.

But the Old Trafford outfit will still be hit by an automatic penalty, even if they are unlikely to be called to account for their conduct as a team.

The FA will wait for Riley's report before deciding whether to look into a clash between Rio Ferdinand and Didier Drogba on the final whistle which left the Chelsea man needing treatment.

"It was a competitive game but I did not think there was one bad tackle in it," said Ferguson of the 1-1 draw.

"The game is being screened worldwide. Everyone is watching it and something like that happens.

"People are saying what is going on here but it is difficult to say anything about the referee. I do not want to get involved."

At least Riley received the backing of Chelsea coach Luiz Felipe Scolari, who noted the FA's recent 'Respect' initiative aimed at greater co-operation between players and officials.

"I am not surprised," said Scolari. "That is what the referee is there for.

"If players do not respect him, it should be yellow and red cards. It doesn't matter who you are - Liverpool or Manchester United, whoever."

However, the Chelsea coach said he was puzzled at the bizarre ending, with Riley blowing for time as Drogba was about to receive treatment.

"It was strange that he finished the game at that time but we need to accept his decision."

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