Uefa take action after Ferguson no-show

Uefa have opened disciplinary proceedings against Manchester United over Nani’s red card and the non-fulfilment of post-match media obligations at Tuesday night’s Champions League match with Real Madrid, the European governing body have confirmed.

Manager Alex Ferguson reacted angrily after Nani was sent off for a high challenge on Madrid’s Alvaro Arbeloa in the 56th minute, at a time when United were leading 1-0.

But with the man advantage, Madrid came back to win 2-1 on the night, 3-2 on aggregate.

Ferguson did not appear for interviews after the match, with his assistant Mike Phelan attending the post-match press conference and saying the manager was too “distraught” to speak, while the players did not stop to talk in the mixed zone. Uefa issued a short statement yesterday confirmingdisciplinary proceedings have been opened against the club regarding the two incidents.

“The case will be dealt with by the Uefa Control and Disciplinary Body on Thursday 21 March,” the statement said.

Champions League rules oblige managers to speak to the media after every match.

Phelan had suggested he was at least likely to adopt a more diplomatic stance than his boss, who might have risked an even heavier sanction had he imparted his thoughts in public.

Yesterday’s statement from Uefa made no mention of defender Rio Ferdinand, who sarcastically applauded Turkish referee Cuneyt Cakir after the final whistle when the players surrounded the officials.

Uefa also insisted it had no issues regarding Cakir’s performance.

Ferguson is due to speak to the media tomorrow ahead of their FA Cup quarter-final with Chelsea.