O'Shea reveals Fergie's ref advice

3/29/2008 - 9:45:47 AM

Manchester United know how to respect referees, according to John O’Shea.

The Republic of Ireland defender revealed the squad have been given guidance by manager Alex Ferguson on the correct way to behave.

The lack of empathy between players and officials has been highlighted in recent weeks.

Chelsea’s Ashley Cole first turned his back on referee Mike Riley but was not sent off for his petulance.

Then, on Sunday, Javier Mascherano was sent off for Liverpool in the 3-0 defeat by United for constantly talking to Steve Bennett.

O’Shea said: “The manager has told us to avoid any incidents that may happen.

“We have to get on with it and leave the referee alone. That is his experience.

“I think we all realised during the week that it was – with the Ashley Cole incident – you had to be very careful.

“The referees were probably thinking in their own minds that this was a good time to get the attention on the so-called lack of respect. The majority of players do give respect though.”

Ferguson said: “Our discipline record is very good, one of the best in the country. I feel we are a fair team.”

United aim to tighten their grip on top spot this evening when they face Martin O’Neill’s Aston Villa at Old Trafford.

Villa have not won in the league at the ground since November 1983 and their form has dipped in recent weeks.

However Ferguson, who will be without midfielder Darren Fletcher for six weeks with knee ligament injury, is expecting a rough ride.

He said: “The great and most interesting thing about Martin is he works with a small squad, maybe 17-18 players.

“He picks the same team every week and it is a testament to their endurance they are still pushing for a UEFA Cup place.

“We will have a job on our hands and I am looking forward to the challenge.”

Meanwhile club captain Gary Neville is scheduled to continue his protracted comeback from an ankle injury with the reserves on Monday.

Ferguson added: “Gary is improving very well. He has done a full week in training at a good level.”