UPDATE 2-Soccer-FA punish United boss Ferguson with ban and fine

* Ferguson punished for criticising referee Wiley

* Two matches suspended until end of next season (adds referee reaction paras 7-9)

By Mike Collett

LONDON, Nov 12 (Reuters) - Manchester United manager Alex Ferguson was handed a four-match touchline ban, two of which were suspended, and fined 20,000 pounds ($33,150) by the FA on Thursday for insulting referee Alan Wiley last month.

At a personal hearing in London, Ferguson, 67, admitted a charge of improper conduct for questioning Wiley's suitability to officiate following United's 2-2 draw with Sunderland at Old Trafford on Oct. 3.

Ferguson said Wiley was not fit enough to referee the game.

Peter Griffiths, the chairman of the FA Regulatory Commission, told the FA website (www.thefa.com): "Each member of the Commission recognised Sir Alex Ferguson's achievements and stature within the game.

"Having said that, it was made clear to Sir Alex that with such stature comes increased responsibilities.

"The Commission considered his admitted remarks, in the context in which they were made, were not just improper but were grossly improper and wholly inappropriate. He should never have said what he did say."