Sir Alex Ferguson

Sir Alex Ferguson last night insisted Arsenal skipper William Gallas should have been sent off for getting on Nani’s goat.

The Gunners defender kicked out at the Man United star in frustration as the Premier League leaders crashed out of the FA Cup at Old Trafford. Referee Alan Wiley missed the clattering into the back of Nani’s legs – but the United boss didn’t.

Fergie, after seeing Emmanuel Eboue sent off for an X-rated lunge at Patrice Evra, was convinced that Gallas should have gone too.

Gallas was reported before the game attacking Fergie for his side being ‘arrogant’ and the Scot blasted: “I thought Gallas should have been sent-off.

‘‘The ref should look at it again. He kicked Nani from behind when the ball was 20 yards away. He should have been red-carded.”

Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger was furious too himself – this time with showboating Nani.

Ferguson agreed and said he had given Nani a ticking-off.

He said: “I agree Nani shouldn’t do that. It shows a great deal of courage to do that but you don’t have to do it. We have had a word with him.

‘‘But this result was a great response to last week’s Derby defeat and I hope it has an impact on the title.

‘‘When Arsenal come here in April they know they’re going to have a real game.

‘‘It was a fantastic performance. We played with verve and tenacity.

Our passing was terrific and everyone should be proud of themselves.

‘‘They fell flat on a really important day last week. Today we made amends with a marvellous performance.”