Ferdinand faces ban after clash with Hull City's Fagan

The FA took the action after viewing video footage of the Manchester United defender's clash with Hull forward Craig Fagan during the second-half of Saturday's 4-0 win at Old Trafford.

Ferdinand has until Wednesday evening to respond.

As the case is being dealt with under the FA's fast-track system, Ferdinand could either plead guilty and accept the three-match suspension or challenge the decision, in which case a disciplinary hearing will be held on Thursday.

Even if Ferdinand does admit his guilt, he could still figure in tomorrow night's Carling Cup semi-final with Manchester City at Old Trafford and begin his punishment on Sunday, when the Red Devils visit Arsenal.

That seems a more logical move that beginning the suspension immediately, as United also have the option to do, a move that would rule Ferdinand out of the games against City, Arsenal and Portsmouth at Old Trafford on February 6.

If Ferdinand plays against City the third match of any suspension would be at Aston Villa on February 10.