By Chris O'Brien
August 11 2006

The Scousers got away with it in 2003, but Paul Scholes and Wayne Rooney could both be facing three-match suspensions for their red cards in the Amsterdam Tournament clash against Porto. The duo could miss United's Premiership openers against London trio Fulham, Charlton and Watford..

United duo Paul Scholes and Wayne Rooney could both miss the Premiership opener against Fulham through suspension.

Both were sent-off as the Red Devils secured a 3-1 victory against FC Porto in the Amsterdam Tournament, and could pay the price with suspension from domestic competition.

Referee Ruud Bossen looks set to report both incidents to the Dutch Football Association, who in turn can inform the English FA, who can then issue punishments as they see fit.

There can be little argument regarding the dismissal of Scholes, the midfielder shown red for a late, reckless challenge from behind on Porto's Quaresma. However, Rooney's sending-off followed a somewhat harmless aerial challenge with Pepe, and United will hope that the FA would not see fit to hand out a suspension.

"I've seen the incident with Wayne and it was innocuous." said Sir Alex, who was otherwise pleased with a successful evening at the Amsterdam Arena

"You would think common sense and fairness would prevail. It's a ridiculous decision, but we will have to wait and see what happens."

The Amsterdam Tournament has previously 'safeguarded' participating players by instructing referees not to report dismissals to the relevant authorities. In 2003, Neil Mellor and Steven Gerrard both saw red in the tournament, only to avoid suspension. However, it would seem their is no such luck for United's duo who could be facing up to a three-game ban with the squad already reeling from a series of injuries.

Blinkin' eck!