Rio Ferdinand makes loaded 'bet the ref's gutted' statement as he hails ten-man Man Utd for dumping Arsenal out of the FA Cup after drama-filled third-round tie

A thrilling third-round tie at Emirates Stadium went all the way to penalties before holders United put their name in the hat. Altay Bayindir was the hero for the Red Devils as wild celebrations were sparked among the visiting support in north London.

United had to dig deep to get over the line, with Ruben Amorim’s side taking issue with some big decisions that went against them – including the second-half dismissal of Diogo Dalot and the award of a penalty after Harry Maguire tangled with Kai Havertz.

Andy Madley was the man in the middle, with ex-Red Devils defender Ferdinand less than impressed with his performance. The former England international posted after seeing United prevail 5-3 on spot-kicks: "Another battling performance… desire, willingness to fight as a team! Bet the ref’s gutted.”

United appear to have bones to pick with the match officials as a collective, with their social media team also getting in on the act. As the dust settled on an absorbing encounter, the Reds Devils delivered a one-word “Justice” assessment on X.

United’s reward for getting the job done against Arsenal is a home date in round four against Premier League rivals Leicester. After suffering four successive defeats, the Red Devils have now displayed plenty of fighting spirit in back-to-back fixtures against Liverpool and the Gunners.