Manchester United defender Rio Ferdinand has thanked the club's supporters for cheering their team on during the UEFA Champions League 2-1 loss to Real Madrid. Roared on by the home supporters, ten-man United poured forward for the two goals they needed to progress.

Ferdinand was upset after the match and sarcastically applauded referee Cuneyt Cakir before leaving the field.

And, writing on Twitter on Wednesday morning, the experienced centre-back said: "Morning, was a long night without any sleep. "I must say last night our fans done us + our club proud.

Best/loudest support I've heard at ANY ground throughout my career. Thank you."

None of Manchester United's players spoke to the media on Tuesday night after the game.