Ancelotti: Ferguson reaction ‘normal’
Ferguson has been charged with improper conduct by the FA for his outspoken post-match attack on Atkinson following United’s 2-1 defeat at Stamford Bridge on Tuesday.
The Scot, who has decided to appeal the charge, appeared to question the official’s integrity when he said “in matches like this, you want a fair referee” during an interview with his club’s in-house television station, MUTV.
Chelsea boss Ancelotti yesterday described Ferguson’s reaction as “normal”, saying: “After the game, you have emotion about the game so, sometimes, you speak about decisions. This is normal, I think.”
He added: “He had an argument against the referee. But I don’t want to comment on this.
“I have a fantastic relationship with Sir Alex. We spoke after the game and he was disappointed at the referee’s decision, but this is football.
“Sometimes one coach is happy and the other is unhappy after a match with a referee’s decision.”
Much of Ferguson’s ire was sparked by Atkinson’s decision not to send off David Luiz for an obvious second bookable offence when the defender cynically fouled Wayne Rooney.
Luiz’s overly-aggressive approach marred what was otherwise another virtuoso display by the 23-year-old.
His stunning volley brought Chelsea level at Stamford Bridge as he showed the full range of his skills, but also the darker side of his game.
Ancelotti said: “He has to know English football. He has to be more calm on the pitch.
“Obviously he’s showed fantastic ability and quality.
“He has to improve, but he will because he’ll have more experience and knowledge about English football. He can change his behaviour on the pitch.”
Luiz’s performances have made him an instant hero among Chelsea fans and Ancelotti believes there is even more to come from the outrageously-gifted Brazilian.
“He’s showing fantastic ability offensively, obviously,” he said.
“He’s able to pass the ball and move in front without problems. He’s able to shoot at goal.
“Defensively, he can improve. He can be better defensively.”
Chelsea’s victory dented United’s title push, denying them the chance to extend their four-point lead over second-placed Arsenal.
It also saw their opponents move to within 12 points of Ferguson’s men with a game in hand, keeping alive the Blues’ paper-thin hopes of retaining the championship.
Asked if Ferguson’s outburst showed he was feeling the pressure, Ancelotti joked: “If Ferguson is under pressure in the title race, what kind of pressure must I be under?”
With United facing a daunting trip to Liverpool tomorrow and Chelsea travelling to Blackpool the following evening, this weekend could well and truly revive the latter’s title push.
“It’s difficult to believe,” Ancelotti said.
“The title is in United’s hands again.
“If they lose some games, we can have possibilities.
“But now, at this moment, we can’t think about this.”
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