Manchester United defender Rio Ferdinand has stuck up for United and England team-mate Wayne Rooney, claiming referees and officials are targeting the striker and penalizing him just because of his disciplinary record.

However, Ferdinand - who has emerged as the Red Devils' vice-captain - admitted that the youngster is improving his disciplinary record after earning a reputation of being incredibly hot-headed and aggressive.

The defender stated: "Wayne gets picked on a little bit. People want to make an example of who he is."

"You see images on TV when he is shouting his frustrations but he is no different from a lot of players"

"Referees book him when others get three or four opportunities to make a foul. They get away with it but referees are sometimes quick to give him a booking."

"But his disciplinary record has improved. Let's not forget, he is a young lad with a lot on his plate."

Regarding the title chase with Chelsea, Ferdinand backed United to take advantage of any points dropped by the Blues. "We definitely think we can still win the title. There are a lot of points between us and Chelsea but we've got to make sure we still get the results and keep winning the games we can win."

"We need to make sure if, towards the end of the season, Chelsea do drop any points we're ready to jump on them."