Manchester United have succeeded in their appeal to reduce the ban Darren Fletcher received from the Football Association after he was charged with alleged misconduct during their Premier League fixture against Brentford.
Fletcher, who works for United as a first-team coach, received a three-match touchline ban from the FA and was fined £7,500 after the Scot was involved in a heated exchange with officials during the half-time interval.
It is alleged that the 40-year-old acted in an "improper and/or confrontational manner" and used "abusive and/or insulting words" towards the match officials during United's 2-1 win at Old Trafford on October 19.
Related articles
United opted to launch an appeal against the FA after deeming the length of the ban excessive. Following a hearing with the independent Appeal Board, Fletcher's ban has been reduced to two games, while the fine has been knocked down to £6,000.
An FA statement read: "An independent Appeal Board has allowed an appeal by Darren Fletcher in relation to misconduct at Manchester United’s fixture against Brentford on Saturday 19 October in the Premier League.
"The FA alleged that around the tunnel area at half time the coach acted in an improper and/or confrontational manner and/or that he used abusive and/or insulting words towards the fourth official and the referee and/or assistant referees.
Our community members are treated to special offers, promotions, and adverts from us and our partners. You can check out at any time. Read our Privacy Policy
"Darren Fletcher admitted to this misconduct, but argued that it was only towards the fourth official and the referee, and also denied that he was abusive.
"An independent Regulatory Commission found these charges to be proven, and it imposed a three-match extended touchline ban and £7,500 fine following a hearing.
"The independent Appeal Board has reduced the extended touchline ban and fine to two matches and £6,000 respectively, and its written reasons will be published in due course."
United were left seething when Brentford scored the opener after Ethan Pinnock headed home while Red Devils star Matthijs de Ligt was forced to leave the pitch for a third time to deal with a cut on his head.
At the time, Erik ten Hag was in charge and the Dutchman - along with his former assistant Ruud van Nistelrooy - received yellow cards for their protests.
Fletcher's complaints continued beyond the half-time whistle as the teams made their way down the tunnel. And while the former technical director will still be barred from the touchline, he will be back one game sooner following their successful appeal.
United face Ipswich Town at Portman Road on Sunday before welcoming Everton to Old Trafford on December 1. Fletcher will be available to sit with the team for their crucial clash against Arsenal three days later.
