Ferguson raps 'churlish' Shearer

Alex Ferguson has delivered a withering put-down to Alan Shearer over the referee row that erupted after Manchester United’s defeat of Newcastle at St James’ Park last Sunday.

Shearer was furious that referee Mike Dean let Wayne Rooney get away with a push on Magpies’ defender Andy O’Brien in the attack that ended with United getting the vital penalty which put them on their way to a 3-1 win.

The former England star claimed Ferguson’s previous complaint that the Red Devils would not get a penalty again this season following Mike Riley’s equally controversial award in the Old Trafford encounter with Arsenal had been a major factor in Dean’s non-decision.

However, reflecting on the game in his programme notes for today’s encounter with Charlton, Ferguson claims Shearer’s comments were ‘churlish’.

“I didn’t see the push until I watched the video afterwards and I am sure the referee didn’t see it either, otherwise he would have blown for a free-kick,” said the United boss.

“I thought it was rather churlish of Alan Shearer to suggest the referee was biased.

“How many goals has Alan Shearer scored after shoving a defender.”