Ryan Babel says sorry to Howard Webb for Manchester United shirt mock-up

The Football Association were today investigating whether Liverpool forward Ryan Babel would face disciplinary action following his criticism of referee Howard Webb on Twitter.

The Holland international used his Twitter account to post a mocked-up picture of the World Cup final referee wearing a Manchester United shirt following his side's 1-0 FA Cup third-round defeat at Old Trafford.

The official awarded a controversial first-minute penalty to United after Daniel Agger was adjudged to have brought down Dimitar Berbatov and sent off Liverpool captain Steven Gerrard after diving into a tackle on Michael Carrick in the 31st minute.

Babel also wrote: "And they call him one of the best referees? That's a joke. SMH (shaking my head)."

The 24-year-old later added: "My apology if they take my posted pic seriously. This is just an emotional reaction after losing an important game. Sorry Howard Webb."