Rooney faces suspension for swearing

Published Apr. 4, 2011 1:00 a.m. ET

foxsports

The English Football Association on Monday charged soccer star Wayne Rooney for swearing during Manchester United's win at West Ham.

The England striker is facing a two-game suspension for cursing into a television camera after he completed his hat-trick from the penalty spot in United's 4-2 Premier League win Saturday.

Rooney has until 6:00pm local time Tuesday to respond to the charge. If he accepts the ban he will miss this weekend's home clash with Fulham as well as the FA Cup semi-final against local rival Manchester City.

Rooney later apologized for his outburst, which was heard around the world and led to an on-air apology from Sky Sports.

"Emotions were running high and on reflection my heat-of-the-moment reaction was inappropriate," Rooney said following the game. "It was not aimed at anyone in particular."

Rooney inspired United to score four times in 19 minutes after the interval at Upton Park. The result left the Red Devils seven points clear at the top of the Premier League table.