Sir Alex Ferguson has branded comments made by Gus Poyet defending Luis Suarez over allegations of racism as 'inappropriate'.
Ferguson hits back at Poyet's 'silly' criticism of Evra
Sir Alex Ferguson has branded comments made by Gus Poyet defending fellow Uruguayan Luis Suarez over allegations of racism as 'inappropriate'.
Liverpool's Suarez has been charged by the Football Association after Manchester United defender Patrice Evra accused the striker of racially abusing him "at least 10 times" during last month's 1-1 Premier League draw at Anfield.
The Reds have confirmed that Suarez will plead 'not guilty' to the charge when he returns from international duty and have reiterated their support of the hitman in the matter.
Brighton manager Poyet sprung to the Uruguay international's defence on Friday, accusing Evra of "crying like a baby" over the incident.
United boss Ferguson has hit back at his remarks, insisting they are ill-timed in a week which has seen FIFA president Sepp Blatter spark controversy by downplaying the impact of racism in the game.
"We have been asked by the FA not to say anything about the investigation and we've abided by that," Ferguson said in a press conference on
Sky Sports News.
"I think Liverpool have been drip feeding a lot of stuff out in the last couple of weeks. At the end of the day the FA will deal with it. I'm more surprised by Gus Poyet's remarks.
Inappropriate
"I think that's inappropriate at a time when people throughout the world are condemning racism. I think he's chosen the wrong time.
"I can understand why he wants to support somebody from his country but he's got to think more about it.
"I don't know how the question has been loaded but it seems his criticism of Evra is a bit silly."
Blatter has earned widespread criticism from leading figures in the game after suggesting earlier this week that racism on the pitch could be settled by a handshake after the match.
The Swiss has since said sorry for his comments but has refused to resign from his post despite many calling for his head.
Ferguson believes his apology should put an end to the matter, adding: "Sepp Blatter has apologised, that's fine. I think that's appropriate."
