Rooney escapes longer ban

Wayne Rooney escapes further sanction for his red card against Fulham

Manchester United striker Wayne Rooney will not face further disciplinary action following the red card he received against Fulham last weekend.

The England star was sent-off for two bookable offences during the Barclays Premier League champions' shock 2-0 defeat.

Although he had words with Phil Dowd after being shown the red card, the official has confirmed he was not sworn at by Rooney, an offence which could have led to a longer ban.

However, the Football Association (FA) is to write to Rooney, whose temper has been a worry to some within the English game, about his conduct after the former Everton favourite punched a corner flag while leaving the pitch.

An FA spokesman said: "We have clarified with Phil Dowd that there was no abuse from the player after he was dismissed.

"In relation to the incident when he punched the corner flag, the referee did not see that and we have written to Wayne Rooney reminding him of his responsibilities."

Rooney will now be suspended for one match, the Premier League fixture against Aston Villa at Old Trafford on April 5.