London, Oct.13 (ANI): In a late bid to escape a rap from Britain's Football Association for his criticism of referee Alan Wiley during a two-all draw between Manchester United and Sunderland earlier this month, coach Alex Ferguson will send a letter of apology to FA chiefs.

According to The Sun, Fergie has until Friday morning to submit his response to the Soho Square supremos after they asked him to explain why he labelled Wiley 'unfit' as a referee.

It is understood that Manchester United officials have drafted an apology on his behalf to be sent to the FA.

Ferguson has already said sorry to Wiley 'for any personal embarrassment' in a statement on the club's website.

Now, he is hoping a more formal apology will help him avoid an improper conduct charge.

However, Fergie has told sources it would be impossible for him to receive a fair hearing following the publicity surrounding the case.

He is understood to be fuming at the campaign raging against him and believes people close to top-flight referees are fueling it. (ANI)