Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson could face a touchline ban from the FA after berating referee Mike Dean in his sides win over Newcastle yesterday, the Telegraph reports.

The Football Association will decide whether to take action against Ferguson once they have received Deans refereeing report of the drama filled Boxing Day encounter at Old Trafford, which saw the Red Devils run out 4-3 winners.

Ferguson was furious after Newcastle's contentious second goal was allowed when Danny Simpson's shot towards goal was deflected in off Manchester United defender Jonny Evans, under pressure from Papiss Cisse who looked in an offside position.

The assistant initially ruled the goal out, however after consulting with referee Dean, they decided that Cisse was not interfering with play and therefore the goal should stand.

Ferguson told the clubs official website, "The referee changed the linesman's mind,"

"The referee said it was an own goal [by Jonny Evans, and therefore not offside] but if you see it again, the referee couldn't see it and that's why his linesman has to come into it [the decision making].

"The Newcastle striker is in an offside position and as the ball's played in, he pulls Jonny Evans' arm. If that's not interfering with play, what is interference? "

Before the start of the second half, Ferguson was seen angrily making his point to Dean before heading to the dugout and continuing the debate with one of the fourth officials.

It now seems likely that Ferguson will face a spell in the stands following the victory which saw his men go seven points clear at the top of the Premier League.