Everton boss David Moyes has branded Wayne Rooney's three-match Euro 2012 ban "a joke".

It will be next week before the Football Association receive the written conclusions they require from UEFA before deciding whether to launch an appeal.

Opinion is divided as to whether the FA should mount a challenge, with some, such as Wolves boss Mick McCarthy, pointing out appeals to the FA's own disciplinary rulings are rarely successful.

Sir Alex Ferguson said he wouldn't answer any questions relating to his star forward, who is expected to play at Liverpool today.

Instead, Moyes took up the argument on Rooney's behalf.

"The three-game ban is a joke," said the Everton chief.

"There is no doubting that Wayne shouldn't have done what he did.

"But I thought they (UEFA) would have near enough let it go."

Once they receive the written findings, the FA will have three days to advise whether they intend to appeal or not.

From that point, they will have a further six days to submit their case.

It means it is likely to be into November at the earliest before a final decision is made on the extent, if any, of Rooney's participation in the group phase in Poland or Ukraine next summer.

In the immediate aftermath of the 2-2 draw in Montenegro last Friday, when Rooney received the second red card of his England career, Fabio Capello indicated he would take Rooney regardless of any suspension.