The man who fought the FA's charge against Manchester United defender Rio Ferdinand has branded the association as "incompetent".

The big gamble over Ferdinand's three-match ban has failed spectacularly.

The Manchester United defender was suspended for an extra game by the FA for what they considered a "frivolous" appeal.

United had argued the incident was identical to when Liverpool midfielder Javier Mascherano swung and caught Leeds striker Jermaine Beckford during a Carling Cup clash four months ago.

Graham Bean, the former FA compliance officer, fought the charge on Ferdinand's behalf.

Bean had recommended United accept the charge but only because he believes such cases are always weighted in the FA's favour.

Last night, an angry Bean told The Sunt the FA was "incompetent".

He said in The Sun: "This decision highlights the total inconsistency in the FA's procedures.

"There are two identical cases and yet two different outcomes. How can you run an adequate and respected process with such incompetence in the ranks?

"They are effectively asking the official to re-referee the game."