Ruud Accepts Charge

Ruud van Nistelrooy has pleaded guilty to the charge of serious foul play following his challenge on Ashley Cole in Sunday's clash with Arsenal.



A Manchester United statement said: "Ruud van Nistelrooy has decided to accept the FA's charge of misconduct relating to the incident with Ashley Cole."

"Ruud has accepted the automatic penalty of a three-match suspension and Manchester United fully supports Ruud's decision."

The ban has started with immediate effect, ruling him out of today's Carling Cup tie against Crewe.

By pleading guilty to the charge, van Nistelrooy has brought forward his expected ban, making him available for the away trip to Newcastle on the 14th of November.

Van Nistelrooy added, "Throughout my 10-year career I believe my disciplinary record is very good, not only for Manchester United but at all clubs."

In his entire career, Ruud van Nistelrooy has never served a suspension before.

"There was no deliberate intent to harm Ashley Cole and I would like to take this opportunity to apologise to him," he added.