The scuffle between Manchester United’s Patrice Evra and Chelsea Groundsman Steve Bethell during United’s cool down happened all the way back on April 26th of this year, but the English Football Association yesterday handed Evra a four match ban (starting December 22nd) and a 15,ooo Pound Fine.

And while Bethell escaped punishment personally because of his contract not falling in line within the FA’s territory, the did fine the club 25,000 Pound for their part in the “Battle of Stamford Bridge”.

Via DailMail

A spokesman for the club said: ‘Manchester United note the announcement from the FA and are disappointed with the decision and, in particular, consider 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.’

The commission found that Bethell conducted himself in a ‘disorderly fashion’ and that his language ‘had been abusive and provocative’.

Chelsea were fined for failing to ensure that their employee conducted himself ‘in an orderly fashion and refrained from abusive and provocative conduct and language’.

A Chelsea spokesman said last night: ‘Chelsea would like to thank the FA for their decision that there was no racist element involved in the incident.

‘Chelsea have always strenuously denied the racist allegation and that position has been totally vindicated by the FA. Alleging racism is one of the most serious accusations that can be made in football.

‘Chelsea has a zero tolerance attitude towards racism and is fighting hard with the rest of football to rid all forms of discrimination from the game. Clearly the incident itself was a regrettable one.’

Image via RedArmyFC