Boss Sddened By Incident

Sir Alex Ferguson felt the Manchester derby did not deserve the unsavoury incident that followed Robin van Persie's winner when Rio Ferdinand was struck by a coin thrown from the crowd.

The defender was left bloodied but unbowed as the Reds celebrated during the remarkable climax and the manager was upset to also see a fan attempt to confront the centre-back with Joe Hart's quick thinking thankfully stopping the spectator in his tracks.

City later issued a statement revealing the club will co-operate fully with the local police in order to punish any offenders, while the Football Association confirmed they are investigating the incidents.

"It was disappointing that a supporter ran on the field after Rio had been hit by a coin in the eye," the manager told MUTV at the Etihad Stadium. "It's a bit disappointing. The game didn't deserve that.

"I don't know whether they're going to stitch it or not. The same thing happened at Chelsea with all the carry-on when half a seat hit Michael Carrick and coins and lighters were thrown on. The game doesn't need that."

Ashley Young agreed with the manager that it was an unpleasant way to end an absorbing clash with the eyes of the world watching on TV.

"It could have taken Rio’s eye out and you’ve seen the cut on his head," said the winger. "When 'Wazza' was taking a corner there were so many objects being thrown onto the pitch as well and, on another day, if the pitch had not been so wet, the fan who came onto the pitch wouldn’t have slipped over and could have attacked Rio. It’s not nice to see that and hopefully it’ll be dealt with."

City, for their part, have apologised to Ferdinand in a statement and promised to take appropriate action.

"Manchester City FC security officials are co-operating fully with Greater Manchester Police in relation to events leading up to the throwing of missiles onto the field of play, and between the two sets of supporters, during today's game against Manchester United," it read.

"Manchester City wishes to offer its sincere apologies to Rio Ferdinand. The club unreservedly condemns the actions which led to his being injured.

"GMP's review of all fan behaviour at today's match will be fully supported by the club, through the provision of CCTV footage and eyewitness accounts. Following this review, and any associated police action, the club will also apply its own disciplinary policies for any fans found guilty of offences."

The Football Association later issued their own statement that read: "The FA is investigating the incident in which an object was thrown from the crowd and hit Rio Ferdinand following Manchester United's third goal against Manchester City on Sunday. The FA will liaise with Greater Manchester Police and await the reports of both our crowd control advisor who was present at the game and the match referee.

"An FA spokesperson said: 'It is disappointing that after a great game and advert for the Premier League that we are discussing this issue. We will work with the clubs and authorities to identify those responsible and support the strongest sanctions available, including life bans. We condemn any such acts and it is simply unacceptable that any player is exposed to injury in this way. To witness Rio Ferdinand leaving the field with a cut above his eye to receive treatment is appalling.

'Football in this country has made great progress over recent decades. However, we must maintain the safety and security inside of our stadia and to do this we need to isolate and identify any individuals guilty of offences with strong penalties to act as a deterrent to others.'"