Clattenburg innocent, says Fergie

Manchester United manager Alex Ferguson yesterday poured scorn on Chelsea’s claim Mark Clattenburg used “inappropriate language” towards John Obi Mikel, declaring: “It didn’t happen.”

But Blues boss Roberto Di Matteo later hit back, insisting the allegation “should be treated seriously, no matter what“, also claiming refereeing decisions appeared to go in “one direction” when it came to United.

Ferguson finally had his say on the latest race row to rock football yesterday and he did not pull his punches, saying there was “no way” referee Clattenburg would have abused Chelsea midfielder Mikel during United’s stormy Premier League win at Stamford Bridge last Sunday.