Rooney's ban for next summer's tournament was yesterday cut from three matches to two after he was sent off for kicking out at Montenegro's Miodrag Dzudovic during England's final qualifier in October.

The FA had appealed against the UEFA punishment at a hearing in Nyon, Switzerland.

Redknapp thinks the FA's stance is hypocritical as he is sure that had the Manchester United player lashed out in a similar manner in a domestic game, he would be suspended for at least three games.

Redknapp, the bookmakers' favourite to succeed Fabio Capello as England boss, said: "In all honesty it was a three-match ban for violent conduct.

"You can look at it and say it wasn't that violent, but it doesn't matter. If you cuff someone, you get a three-match ban. Those are the rules.

"If you appealed it (domestically), it would be a frivolous appeal and you would probably get four games if you went to the FA."

Redknapp now expects the FA to be besieged with appeals for domestic red cards.

"For them to get it from three to two, it opens up a can of worms," he said.

"There will be clubs appealing against bans and they will want to know why they aren't getting it cut from three to two for similar situations.

"People will look at it and think: 'hang on, the FA have gone and appealed against his (Rooney's) red, why can't we?'

"From England's point of view, I'm pleased to see him get two because he's that important to England, but in all honesty, the rules are supposed to be the rules and they have not been adhered to in this situation."

Redknapp is the second Premier League manager to question the FA's appeal against Rooney's ban after Liverpool manager Kenny Dalglish did so yesterday.

Dalglish said: I find it a bit strange. The FA are supposed to be setting an example for things yet they appeal against Wayne Rooney's three-match ban. I don't think that's a good example to set."

Today, FA chairman David Bernstein put his name to a statement defending their stance.

"It is important that people understand that amongst the many duties of The FA we have responsibility for the England team and also, separately, to oversee the domestic game's regulatory function," said Bernstein.

"Our philosophy for the national team is clear. We will run this along the same lines and with the same focus and commitment as any football club in this country. Our fans would expect no less.

"To achieve this we will fully support our manager and our players.

"This is simply what we have sought to achieve in reducing Wayne Rooney's suspension. I am very pleased that we have been successful in this appeal.

"The FAs disciplinary department has stated, from the outset, that the domestic regulatory process is different to that of UEFA's.

"In the case of Wayne Rooney we have been well and independently advised and have followed proper UEFA process throughout.

"Our management and players respect that domestic disciplinary decisions of The FA are made independently of matters relating to the English national team."

Wolves manager Mick McCarthy has no problem with the Football Association making the appeal to UEFA.

He said: "I think there is an appeal process and, if they are entitled to appeal, good luck to them.

"I hope I have as much success if I decide to appeal about something to our FA.

"But the appeal process is there. They knew full well if it was seemed to be frivolous it (Rooney's ban) might be increased to four games.

"They've done well and good luck to them and good luck to Wayne Rooney.

"I'm delighted for him. He gets to play more games in the European Championships.

"He is a top player and a great lad and pleased for England. They can get their best team out on the pitch and the (appeal) process doesn't bother me."