Ferguson would back players over racist protests

Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson says he would stand by his players if they decided to leave the field in protest at racist abuse.

English youngster Danny Rose was subjected to racial comments while playing for the England Under-21 side in Serbia, and was eventually sent off for his reaction following Connor Wickham’s late winner, sparking a melee between players and staff of both sides.

Ferguson said he would support his own players if they chose to protest in similar circumstances – despite his condemnation of Rio Ferdinand for refusing to wear a ‘Kick It out’ t-shirt before United’s clash against Stoke.

“I have not seen what happened with England in Serbia, I have only taken in what I’ve read,” he said after the 4-2 win over Stoke.

“But I do not think it is any different to what has happened in previous games in that particular place and in quite a few other places.

“Italy is the same. You hear them abusing black players. Do the players walk off? I would not blame them – and that could happen at some point.”

“If it was one of my players who walked off, you would have to support them.”

Ferguson suggested he would be punishing Ferdinand for the defender’s stance regarding the ‘Kick It Out’ t-shirts, having earlier criticised Jason Roberts’ decision not to wear one.

“I’m disappointed because at the press conference yesterday I said to press (that my players would wear the shirts) and it’s embarrassing to me. But he’ll be dealt with, don’t worry about that,” Ferguson said.

Meanwhile, Stoke boss Tony Pulis was thrilled with the performance of Ryan Shawcross in the loss.

Shawcross had another good week as he received his first competitive call-up for England and pressured Wayne Rooney into scoring an own-goal on Saturday too.

The Stoke captain originally started his career at Old Trafford before leaving in 2007 to the regret of Ferguson who has admitted that he is a fan of the 25-year-old.

“There is always an opportunity to take a player from one of the big clubs,” Pulis said.

“The big clubs spend a hell of a lot of money on their youth development programmes but there is always a player there who might get stuck in the traffic of people coming through.

“Ryan is one of them. He was a great signing and the good thing is he wants to get better. He has that desire about him.”

The defender has impressed with his recent form, which has led to questions being raised about his future at the Britannia Stadium.

However, Pulis believes Shawcross is happy where he is.

“No chance,” said the Stoke manager of a possible January transfer.

“It has been a good marriage. Ryan is our captain and has been selected for England and he is only just 25.

“We won’t see the best of him for another two or three years.”