UEFA question Ferguson snub

UEFA have opened disciplinary proceedings against Alex Ferguson following Manchester United’s defeat to Real Madrid on Tuesday.

Portuguese winger Nani was sent off during the Champions League round-of-16 second leg after his high foot made contact with Real’s Alvaro Arbeloa.

That decision left Ferguson furious and the Scot sent assistant Mike Phelan in his place to fulfil the club’s media obligations after the game, which ended 2-1 in Real’s favour.

Phelan said Ferguson was “too distraught” with referee Cuneyt’s Cakir’s performance to face the press in the immediate aftermath, despite his absence contravening UEFA rules.

The English Premier League leaders could face further disciplinary action should veteran defender Rio Ferdinand’s sarcastic applause of Cakir shortly after the final whistle be mentioned in the official’s report.