Manchester, Sept 22: Patrick Vieira labelled Ruud Van Nistelrooy a cheat for his part in the Arsenal captain's red-card at Old Trafford which marred yesterday's top-of-the-table goalless draw. The France star's dismissal sparked a furious war of words between the clubs' managers as Arsenal chief Arsene Wenger and United boss sir Alex Ferguson both defended their star players from charges of foul play.
And the row showed no sign of stopping today when Vieira said, "I am very angry with Ruud Van Nistelrooy, not the referee. He made more of the challenge than he should have done and he cheated. He tried to stamp on me."
Later today the Football Association (FA), tipped by Ferguson to take action against the Arsenal players who jostled Van Nistelrooy after the final whistle, said in a statement it was waiting on referee Steve Bennett's match report before deciding whether to begin disciplinary action. Yesterday, Wenger fired the first shot by branding Dutch striker Van Nistelrooy a cheat for his role in Vieira's dismissal ten minutes from time.
Wenger's comments were immediately condemned by Ferguson.
Vieira was sent off after receiving a second yellow card for kicking out at Van Nistelrooy after being bundled over by the forward.
No contact was made but Vieira's intent was clear and Bennett had little option but to reach for the card. Wenger accused Van Nistelrooy of provoking his captain. Bureau Report