Fergie urges referee to ignore Neville factor

ALEX FERGUSON has warned referee Howard Webb not to let the abuse directed towards Gary Neville affect his handling of today’s FA Cup clash between Liverpool and Manchester United.

On his 31st birthday, Neville is certain to bear the brunt of the hatred from the home fans at Anfield, who view the England full-back as the epitome of the club they despise with a passion.

As a born and bred United fan, Neville has never made any secret of his dislike for Liverpool either and is still to face an FA improper conduct charge over his wild celebrations of Rio Ferdinand’s last-minute goal in the previous meeting between the sides.