The FA has fined Gary Neville £5,000 and warned him about his future conduct following his celebrations at Manchester United’s late winner against Liverpool last month.

The United captain was found guilty of improper conduct by an FA disciplinary hearing. Neville did not attend the hearing in person but gave evidence via video link.

Although Neville is free to lead United into their Carling Cup final encounter against Wigan on Sunday, the decision will disappoint the full back who felt he had done little wrong.

He reacted to Rio Ferdinand’s last-minute header by racing 50 yards towards Liverpool fans at Old Trafford before clutching his shirt and kissing the United badge.

His conduct was defended by both Ferdinand and manager Alex Ferguson, who said: "Too much has been made of it."

"What do we want our players to be? Cold fish who just walk back up the park and tie their boot laces on the half-way line, as everyone else is celebrating?"