United irked by Rooney ban

Manchester United say they are "disappointed" that Wayne Rooney will miss the FA Cup semi-final with Manchester City but will draw a line under the incident and move on (United 11/10 to win FA Cup).

The England international hit-man received a two-match ban after swearing into a television camera during a goal celebration against West Ham United at the weekend but chose to appeal against the severity of the sanction.

However, the FA has upheld the ban and the 25-year-old will miss Saturday's Premier League clash with Fulham at Old Trafford and the mouthwatering last-four encounter with Roberto Mancini's men on April 16 (United 2/5 - match prices).

Rooney was on target for the Red Devils as they secured a priceless away goal with a 1-0 Champions League quarter-final first-leg victory over Chelsea at Stamford Bridge on Wednesday night and he will be eligible to play in the return leg on April 12.

United had hoped to have the ban cut to just one match enabling him to face City, arguing that the punishment did not fit he crime, but the FA chose not to reduce the penalty much to the annoyance of the north west outfit.

"Manchester United is clearly very disappointed with the decision," read a statement. "The club put forward a very strong case to have the punishment reduced, which was unsuccessful.

"Wayne apologised immediately after the match and the club now wishes to move to on to what hopefully will be a very exciting conclusion to the season."