Manchester United midfielder Jack Fletcher has been handed a six-match ban after admitting a charge of a 'non-standard' incident of misconduct, in relation to a reference to sexual orientation.
The FA released a statement on Wednesday morning about the incident which occurred against Barnsley in the EFL Trophy back in October.
The 18-year-old scored for Man United in the game against the Tykes but received a red card in the 63rd-minute, with it now being confirmed that an aggravated breach included a reference to sexual orientation.
Fletcher has elected to have a paper hearing, and has received further punishment on top of the six-match suspension.
Fletcher Fined and Receives Education Order
Jack Fletcher of Manchester United applauds fans
As well as being banned for half-a-dozen games, Fletcher has also been ordered to undergo education over the incident, as well as being fined £1,500.
A statement on the FA website read:
‘Breach of FA Rule E3
‘It is alleged that during the fixture, you acted in an improper manner and/or used abusive and/or insulting words, contrary to FA Rule E3.1.
‘It is alleged that the breach of FA Rule E3.1 is an “Aggravated Breach”, as defined in FA Rule E3.2, as it included a reference, whether express or implied, to sexual orientation.
‘Jack Fletcher admitted the charge and elected a paper hearing.
‘Decision:
• 6-match suspension
• £1,500 fine
• Education order’
This is a breaking story. More to follow...