Former Man United defender Rio Ferdinand has slammed the decision to rule out a Matthijs de Ligt strike against Rangers in their crucial Europa League clash.
The Dutch defender appeared to have given the hosts a first half lead from a corner in the 24th minute at Old Trafford.
His headed effort from a corner was ruled out by the officials for a foul by fellow centre back Leny Yoro.
Yoro was adjudged to have pushed Robin Propper from the set piece, with the VAR officials sticking with the referee’s on field decision.
‘I’m not having that,’ Ferdinand said on TNT Sports.
‘That is so soft, he has just touched him, he has leaned on him slightly.
Matthijs de Ligt’s strike was ruled out after a foul by Leny Yoro, right, on Robin Propper
De Ligt ran away after appearing to give Man United the lead but celebrations were short lived
‘He has gone down like a pack of cards.’
Fellow co-commentator Ally McCoist backed Ferdinand’s view of the controversial incident.
‘I don’t disagree with you,’ McCoist said. ‘But I think once the referee gives it, there is enough for him not to change his mind.’
Ferdinand continued his complaints at the decision on X, writing ‘Never a foul….’ and labelling the referee’s decision as ‘nonsense’.
Having reviewed the incident at half-time, Ferdinand added he believed the disallowed goal should have ‘100 per cent’ stood.
‘I thought it was very, very soft,’ Ferdinand said. Maybe Leny Yoro does run into Propper but I don’t think it’s enough contact to warrant a foul. It’s a good header initially.
‘Yoro, just a slight touch there and he goes over. Too easily in my book. Just a little nudge, nothing crazy.
‘I think it should have stood as a goal, 100 per cent. I won’t change my mind seeing the pictures.’
VAR stuck with the referee’s decision to rule out the goal for a push on the Rangers defender
The first half at Old Trafford finished goalless following De Ligt’s disallowed effort, with Ruben Amorim’s side unable to make the breakthrough.
Both Man United and Rangers came into the clash with hopes of moving into the top eight in the Europa League.
A top eight finish would ensure automatic qualification to the last-16, ensuring they avoid needing a two legged play-off next month.
