• FA Cup

United goals were contentious, says Preston boss

Preston manager Simon Grayson has suggested all three of Manchester United's goals were dubious as they knocked his side out of the FA Cup.

The League One team led 1-0 through a Scott Laird goal before Ander Herrera levelled, although Grayson argued Wayne Rooney was in an offside position and possibly interfering with play.

Marouane Fellaini headed in United's second but Preston felt defender Tom Clarke could have been awarded a free kick for a shove by the Belgian.

And then Rooney converted a penalty after a challenge by goalkeeper Thorsten Stuckmann when Grayson felt there was no contact.

For the opener, he said in a news conference: "Wayne Rooney wasn't directly in [Stuckmann's] line [of vision], he was just to the side. It is a grey area. For the second Tom Clarke was pushed by Fellaini and the third, Wayne Rooney has not been touched by the goalkeeper; yes, he has had to jump out of the way but he has not been touched.

"I am not saying it wasn't a penalty. I am saying there was no contact. You can interpret that how you want. It wasn't a dive. He has gone to get out of the way and take evasive action. I am not complaining but all three goals were slightly contentious."

Grayson was delighted with his side's display, adding: "The players can wake up in the morning very proud of what they have done. I certainly am."

United will now take on Arsenal at Old Trafford on March 7 or 8 for a place at Wembley, and Van Gaal lauded the character show by his players to come from behind.

"The most important thing is that we have a draw at home," said Van Gaal. "I have to give to all the credit to the players because they have done again everything and the spirit in the team is unbelievable."

Van Gaal also revealed that Robin van Persie, who missed the game with an injury, will be able to return at Swansea on Saturday, saying: "He shall be fit so it is dependable if I select him."

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