MANCHESTER, England -- Manchester United defender Rafael da Silva was fined about $12,700 by England's Football Association for 'improper conduct' after earning a red card in a 0-0 draw against Tottenham in a English Premier League match this past weekend.

Rafael attended a personal hearing on Friday, after which the FA issued the following statement:

"At an Independent Regulatory Commission hearing today, Manchester United's Rafael Da Silva was fined [$12,700] and warned as to his future conduct.

"Rafael admitted a charge of improper conduct relating to his behavior towards match official Mike Dean following his sending off in Manchester United's game against Tottenham Hotspur on Jan. 16, 2011."

Friday's news came after Rafael issued the following apology earlier in the week:

"It happened because I was so frustrated at being sent off in such an important game. I apologize for my behaviour."

Rafael will miss Saturday's league fixture vs. Birmingham City.