Tottenham boss Harry Redknapp followed Kenny Dalglish's lead in accusing the FA of double standards by appealing against a suspension that threatened to rule Rooney out of the entire Euro 2012 group phase. Current favourite to replace Fabio Capello as England boss, Redknapp was not alone in believing if Rooney had committed exactly the same offence in the Premier League, and then challenged it, he would probably have been handed an additional match suspension for a "frivolous appeal". However, the FA have attempted to outline the differences between their own disciplinary system and that of UEFA. Whereas all violent conduct cases result in three-match bans under FA regulations, UEFA only have a one-game automatic tariff, with guidance given to the disciplinary panel to add an additional game or two at their discretion. It is a point outlined in a lengthy statement released by FA chairman David Bernstein and, although it may frustrate Redknapp, Dalglish and Everton boss David Moyes amongst others, it does not suggest there will be any change to the present position. "It is important that people understand that amongst the many duties of The FA we have responsibility for the England team and also, separately, to oversee the domestic game's regulatory function," said Bernstein. "Our philosophy for the national team is clear. We will run this along the same lines and with the same focus and commitment as any football club in this country. Our fans would expect no less. "To achieve this we will fully support our manager and our players. "This is simply what we have sought to achieve in reducing Wayne Rooney's suspension. I am very pleased that we have been successful in this appeal. "The FAs disciplinary department has stated, from the outset, that the domestic regulatory process is different to that of UEFA's. "In the case of Wayne Rooney we have been well and independently advised and have followed proper UEFA process throughout. "Our management and players respect that domestic disciplinary decisions of he FA are made independently of matters relating to the English national team." At least Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson is happy. "It is no problem for me," said Ferguson, countering suggestions that he was not interested in the well-being of England's national team. "I am pleased for Wayne Rooney and England. It does give them a better chance."
