Ruud charged by UEFA

Ruud van Nistelrooy was today been charged by UEFA for insulting Swedish referee Anders Frisk after Holland's defeat in last night's Euro 2004 semi-final defeat to Portugal.

The Manchester United striker was furious with Frisk's performance and had to be led away after confronting the match official following the final whistle.

Frisk mentioned the confrontation in his report and UEFA have opened disciplinary proceedings against van Nistelrooy. They are expected to announce his punishment tomorrow.

UEFA spokesman Rob Faulkner told the Press Association: "We have opened disciplinary proceedings against Ruud van Nistelrooy for insulting the referee.
"The incident was mentioned in the referee's report."

The striker, who has confirmed that he is to stay at Manchester United next season, was scathing about Frisk's performance.

Van Nistelrooy said: "It was unbelievable how the referee ruled everything in favour of Portugal.

"He was a real home whistler. Every 50-50 situation went for them but we cannot do anything about it now.

"I'm really down but maybe we have to say that Portugal were the better team.

"We couldn't play our football, couldn't get our wingers into play or our midfielders to dominate the game.

"I was alone up front and it was hard for me to do anything sometimes.

"I am happy with my own personal performance, I scored four goals and felt like I played well.

"Now I'm going to have a break and then get on with the future."