Rooney escapes with one-game ban after seeing red at Fulham

Wayne Rooney will only serve a one-match ban for his red card at Fulham after the Football Association decided not to extend his suspension.

The Manchester United striker received a second yellow card for throwing the ball towards referee Phil Dowd in Saturday's 2-0 defeat.

But although the 23-year-old took his frustration out on the corner flag as he left the pitch, Dowd confirmed Rooney did not swear at the officials after being dismissed.

The FA have consequently let Rooney off with just a written warning regarding his future conduct.

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

"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 miss United's next Premier League game against Aston Villa on 5 April but Sir Alex Ferguson insists his side will cope without him, despite their dip in form, which has seen their lead at the top of the table cut to just a point.

"We have had our blips a few years ago when we were rebuilding the side," he said. "There will be twists in the run-in. The good thing is I am used to it and my players are used to it."