Updated on
Summary Alex Ferguson said that it was unthinkable that Clattenburg had racially abused a Chelsea player.
Alex Ferguson said Friday that it was unthinkable that referee Mark Clattenburg had racially abused a Chelsea player during Manchester Uniteds controversial victory last weekend.Uniteds 3-2 Premier League win was overshadowed by allegations from the losers that Clattenburg, who sent off two Chelsea men, used inappropriate language against two of their players during the match.The claims are being investigated by both Londons Metropolitan Police force and the Football Association, with the focus on allegations that Clattenburg used a racist slur against Nigeria midfielder John Obi Mikel.A second accusation, relating to Spaniard Juan Mata, has been dropped by Chelsea while Clattenburg maintains his innocence on all matters.Now, after words of support from Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger, Clattenburg has received the significant backing of Ferguson, the manager in the visitors dug-out during the contentious afternoon at Stamford Bridge.I dont believe Mark Clattenburg would make any comments like that, Ferguson said Friday. I refuse to believe it. I think its unthinkable.In the modern climate, I just dont believe it. Simple as that. There is no way a referee would stoop to that, Im convinced about that.Ferguson, United boss for more than a quarter of a century, added: I think the way we see the game today as compared to the way it was 25 years ago, it has completely changed.I played myself and I know the banter that goes on between referees and players 25 years ago is different from today, insisted Ferguson, who made his name in football as a striker with now fallen Scottish giants Rangers.Ive never heard of a player come to me in the last 15 years and say, the referee swore in the game. Ever. So thats where I stand, I dont believe it.Its a wider (society) issue but Im not concerned about that. You asked me a question about last Sunday and thats what I think.Chelsea manager Roberto di Matteo, reacting to Fergusons comments, said later Friday: Its a free country and everybody can say what they want. He likes to talk about other clubs. We tend not to.
