WREXHAM skipper Darren Ferguson has been handed a two-match ban following a verbal altercation with an assistant referee after the Dragons' 2-1 home defeat to Leyton Orient on January 21.

The incident occurred in the players' tunnel at the Racecourse Ground after the game and Ferguson has been found guilty of using foul and abusive language towards the match official.

Manager Denis Smith, who missed the game because of a hip replacement operation, said: "Something was said to the official and from what I've read it didn't seem too bad.

"A lot of times, things are said between players and officials in the heat of the moment and often the officials will just laugh it off.

"But obviously on this occasion the official has taken offence.

"I can't say what exactly went on because I wasn't there, but I'm very disappointed with the ban and Darren is very disappointed too."

Because the incident took place away from the pitch - where offences are now punished immediately - a delay of more than a month has ensued for the paperwork to be completed.

Wrexham have yet to receive official confirmation of Ferguson's suspension dates, but it is expected that the ban will start on Monday, March 13, which would mean the midfielder missing the rear-ranged trip to Macclesfield Town the following evening and the visit to Rochdale on Saturday, March 18.

It has been a frustrating period for Ferguson, who has not kicked a ball in anger for the Dragons since the day in question due to a hip injury.

However, Smith is hoping that the 34-year-old Scot, who has made more than 300 Wrexham appearances since arriving in 1999, will soon be back in contention.

He said: "Hopefully Darren will be back available for the weekend (at Barnet)."

Meanwhile, Wrexham have reminded supporters that the home game against Chester City on Sunday, March 26 (12pm) will be all-ticket.

The same restrictions will also apply for Shrewsbury Town's visit to the Race-course on Sunday, April 9 (12pm).