Thursday 5 March 2015 22:49, UK
Louis Van Gaal has insisted Jonny Evans did not mean to spit at Papiss Cisse during Manchester United's 1-0 win over Newcastle United.
Television pictures appeared to show the defender spitting as the Senegal international rose from the turf after the pair tussled for the ball.
The duo have since been charged by the Football Association over the incident, with Cisse accepting his - he now faces a seven-match ban.
Northern Ireland international Evans has denied intending to spit at the striker and van Gaal has defended his player.
He said: "As I've said in last night's press conference, Jonny was not aware that he was spitting. It's a natural thing for a human being, it wasn't his intention.
"I cannot imagine that Jonny Evans could do something like that, and he's also said that. I believe him, so the matter is done. I think the FA is very wise."
Meanwhile, the Dutchman has rubbished claims of a rift between himself and United assistant coach Ryan Giggs.
The United boss was pictured clenching his fist at the Welshman after Ashley Young scored a late winner against the Magpies.
"I cannot answer that. We have a very bad relationship [jokes]. I'm very irritated by this question. We have a very good relationship, everyone can see that we work very hard together, and that goes for all the staff and players.
"I'll take this up with the media, I'm not pleased."
