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Fergie shocked by Evra ban

09 Dec 2008 - 15:56:36

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Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson has admitted to being shocked by the four-match suspension handed down to full-back Patrice Evra by the Football Association.

The 27-year-old France international has been banned for his part in an after-match scuffle following the 2-1 defeat to Chelsea on April 26 at Stamford Bridge, as well as being fined £15,000.

Evra admitted to striking a member of the Blues groundstaff, as well as pushing Sam Bethell in the chest, while Bethell's actions earned Chelsea a £25,000 fine.

Ferguson said: "It was a shock.

"Of all the things the FA have done to us down the years that was one of their biggest. I could not believe it.

"You could never tell what these people are doing. Even if I was sitting having breakfast with them, I would not know what they were thinking.

"But we are still waiting for the written reasons to be delivered to (chief executive) David Gill, so we cannot really comment on what our next step will be."

United had earlier hinted that they will appeal against Evra's ban, with a club statement reading: "Manchester United notes the announcement from the FA and is disappointed with the decision and in particular considers the sanctions against Patrice Evra excessive.

"Manchester United and Patrice will consider all options once there has been an opportunity to digest the full reasons for the decision."