Nani sees red as United miss chance

ALEX FERGUSON has defended Nani rigorously this season but even his patience will have been tested by the Portugal international’s dismissal at Villa Park that ultimately cost Manchester United the chance of toppling league leaders Chelsea last night.

Nani produced his finest United display at Arsenal two games ago but will have infuriated Ferguson for the crude lunge on Stiliyan Petrov in the first half that was always going to leave the visitors facing an uphill battle.

Carlos Cuellar had headed Villa in front with the club’s first home league goal of 2010 before James Collins’ unfortunate own goal hauled United level. But then Nani was dismissed for his moment of madness on Petrov – and he will now miss the Carling Cup Final against last night’s opponents.