FA explain reasons behind QPR defender Rio Ferdinand's ban for Twitter row

QPR defender Rio Ferdinand "should know better” than to become involved in a Twitter row that earned him a three-match ban, according to the FA.

The 35-year-old was also given a £25,000 fine for using the term "sket" - a term for a promiscuous girl or woman - on the social media site in response to a message suggesting Harry Redknapp’s side needed a new centre-back.

Former England skipper Ferdinand, who left Manchester United in the summer, has yet to confirm whether he will appeal, with November 10 the final day he can do so.

The defender failed to reply to the charge, although "his solicitors had responded on his behalf to a request for observations from The FA as part of the investigation".

Ferdinand is a regular Twitter user and has sent more than 14,000 Tweets since joining in June 2010.

"With nearly six million followers Mr Ferdinand is clearly an experienced Twitter user and he should know better than to respond in the way that he did,” the FA's Independent Regulatory Commission said in its written reasons for the case.

"It is said on his behalf that he is one of the most high profile sportsmen on Twitter and he is, without doubt, a role model for many young people, no doubt throughout the world.

“His responsibility is therefore that much greater than many others.

"Unfortunately there is no formal or direct admission and there is certainly no sign of remorse."

Ferdinand has been in trouble with the FA in the past over tweets he has posted.

In 2012, Ferdinand was fined £45,000 by the FA for using the term "choc ice" in a Twitter message after Ashley Cole gave evidence on behalf of his then Chelsea team-mate John Terry during the latter's trial at Westminster magistrates court.

As well as the suspension and fine, Ferdinand must also attend an education programme arranged by the FA.

Watch QPR v Manchester City on this weekend’s Saturday Night Football. Coverage begins on Sky Sports 1HD at 4:45pm.