Rooney fate in referee's hand, can face 4 match ban

Ace striker Wayne Rooney's fate rests in referee Mark Clattenburg's hands as Manchester United striker could face a four-match ban for elbowing on Wigan's James McCarthy.

The Manchester United striker is expected to be charged by the FA today for the incident in Saturday's 4-0 win at the DW Stadium.

He is expected to answer to the charges of violent conduct on Tuesday and, if he pleads guilty, will miss that night's game at Chelsea and be banned for two further games.

If he pleads not guilty he could get a three-match ban plus a further game for what might be regarded as a frivolous appeal, The Sun reports.

Referee Clattenburg gave a free kick, but did not even book Rooney although TV pictures showed he was looking away from the incident.

Clattenburg can now admit making a mistake after reviewing replays and recommend a ban.

Wigan boss Roberto Martinez said: "It is quite clear that it is a red card. He catches James McCarthy in the face with his elbow. If one of my players had done that, I would think he was very lucky to stay on."