Ferguson: Hernandez is no cheat

MANCHESTER United boss Sir Alex Ferguson insisted striker Javier Hernandez is no cheat after he was booked for diving in the goalless draw at Newcastle United last night.

The Mexican went to ground under Danny Simpson’s late challenge and was booked by referee Lee Probert, who had earlier turned down a similar appeal from Magpies’ frontman Peter Lovenkrands.

Ferguson was adamant the Barclays Premier League high-flyers should have been awarded a spot–kick and the chance to extend their advantage over second–placed Arsenal to nine points, and suggested officials should recognise the character of the players with whom they are dealing.

Ferguson’s frustration was understandable: he saw his side survive a positive start by Newcastle to dominate possession.

Home ’keeper Tim Krul made fine first–half saves from Hernandez and the returning Wayne Rooney, but the Dutchman was relieved to see Ryan Giggs twice fire wide from promising positions and Rooney miss the target with an injury–time header as Alan Pardew’s men snatched a point.

United boast a seven–point lead over the Gunners, who make the short trip to north London rivals Tottenham tonight.