Paddy Crerand hits out over Rio criticism
Former United star Paddy Crerand today launched into an astonishing outburst on national radio, reacting to suggestions that Rio Ferdinand had stoked up tensions in the Manchester derby.
Ferdinand was hit by a coin following Robin van Persie's late goal at the Etihad Stadium and City keeper Joe Hart also had to prevent a supporter from confronting the United defender.
It was put to Crerand during an interview on BBC Radio Five Live that listeners had called and texted the show to suggest that players should tone down their celebrations in front of opposition fans, but Crerand was disgusted by the insinuation that Ferdinand had any responsibility for the incident and repeatedly challenged the station to say how many people had blamed him.
"Who said that? That is ridiculous," Crerand said.
"What planet do they live on? That is absolute garbage. How many people have phoned you up? One, two, three? How many?"
Asked if Ferdinand could have provoked the attacks, Crerand added: "I think the point is absolutely ludicrous."
