Stunned United demand Evra transcript

Manchester United have demanded the transcript of Patrice Evra's improper conduct hearing, with Sir Alex Ferguson claiming the four-match ban handed to the Frenchman is a "terrible black mark" against the Football Association.

Evra is not due to feature in domestic action again until the January 11 visit of Chelsea to Old Trafford and Ferguson, still fuming after the FA's decision, confirmed United have yet to receive confirmation of the ban in writing.

"Can you believe we are still waiting for the official confirmation of it? They have been doing that report to make sure it is 100% watertight," said Ferguson. "We have asked for the transcript. That is important because we are not happy."

Evra has plenty of support too, judging by the telephone calls Ferguson has received this week expressing amazement at the verdict into a clash between the full-back and Chelsea groundsman Sam Bethell immediately after the controversial Premier League game at Stamford Bridge last April.

United will only be in a position to decide their next course of action once they hear from the FA. But Ferguson, and his club, are distinctly unimpressed.

"What can anyone say? It is a terrible black mark against the FA," Ferguson told MUTV.

"A lot of people have been ringing about it because it is the most incredible decision in my time at this club.

"The FA have done many things but this is absolutely beyond me."