Fergie could face punishment over BBC snub

LONDON (AFP) – Sir Alex Ferguson could face punishment from the Premier League after the Manchester United manager maintained his stance of not giving interviews to the BBC.

Ferguson was expected to end his six-year boycott of speaking to the British television network when United played at Fulham on Sunday.

The Scot has come under pressure from the Premier League and League Managers’ Association to change his stance, which he first took after a BBC programme investigated the business activities of his son Jason, who then worked as a football agent.

But Ferguson has opted to continue his current position, with assistant Michael Phelan made available to provide comments instead should the BBC request it.

That is a breach of the Premier League and a statement from the organisation hinted action could be taken.

“The Premier League is disappointed that the BBC and Manchester United have, as yet, been unable to resolve the issue of Sir Alex Ferguson providing post-match interviews,” the statement read.

“We will, of course, continue to monitor the situation and offer any help deemed necessary by either party to try and help remedy the situation.

“However, this is a breach of Premier League rules and the board will consider the appropriate course of action at their next meeting scheduled for late September.”