Liverpool manager Rafael Benitez warned over referee jibe but avoids ban or fine

After losing the season-opener 2-1 at Tottenham, Benitez responded to a question about referee Phil Dowd's performance by removing his glasses from a pocket and examining them. The Football Association's regulatory commission concluded that "the gesture was objectively offensive". Liverpool said the commission accepted it was carried out in a "non-malicious and humorous manner." Benitez was cleared of two other aspects of the misconduct charge, including the claim that it was "impossible" to be awarded two penalties by Dowd. "The commission noted Mr Benitez's previous exemplary disciplinary record over 23 years as a coach and manager at the highest level of the sport," the FA said. "Taking into account all relevant factors, the commission concluded that the appropriate penalty was to warn Mr Benitez as to his future conduct with regards to interviews and press briefings."

Source: Telegraph