Darren Ferguson has defended his decision not to sub on Ashley Young's son Tyler during Peterborough United's 2-0 FA Cup loss to Everton on Thursday night.
Tyler would have lined up against his dad had he been called upon but the Peterborough United manager brought on other players with the game hanging in the balance.
It denied the pair the piece of history of becoming the first father and son to face off in the competition.
Everton led 1-0 when Ferguson made his fifth and final sub in the 88th minute of the game, leading to criticism from some quarters.
But Ferguson, son of legendary manager Alex, defended his decision, stressing that Peterborough aren't a 'charity case,' insisting that he had to do 'what is best for the team.'
GUTTED……
— Ashley Young (@youngy18) January 10, 2025
Posh were trailling 1-0 in the 88th minute when Ferguson called on an attacking player with the aim of finding an equaliser, leaving full back Young (18) on the bench.
"(It was) very difficult, but I have got to do what I think is best for the team," Ferguson said post-match.
"As much as I wanted Tyler to get on, if the game had been 2-0 at that point (when he made his final change) I would have put him on but it was 1-0 and I had to get a forward on, I have got to try and get something out of the game.
"We're not a charity case - as much as I wanted Tyler to get on with his dad, one of their players had a bit of a pop at me which is bang out of order."
This moment ❤️
Tyler Young may not have had the chance to face his dad, Ashley, but his bright future in the game means plenty more unforgettable #EmiratesFACup moments await 🏆 pic.twitter.com/clprH0YWvz
— Emirates FA Cup (@EmiratesFACup) January 9, 2025
"At that point at 1-0 I am trying to get a result."
Ashley Young was seen having a discussion with his son after the game and posted the Tweet 'GUTTED,' on Friday morning. All the while, an unnamed Everton player 'had a pop' at Ferguson, which he felt was 'bang out of order.'
🗣️ "We're not a charity case".
Peterborough United boss Darren Ferguson has explained why he didn't bring Tyler Young on to play against his father Ashley Young at Goodison Park.#BBCFACup #BBCFootball pic.twitter.com/7egKxRnOOz
— Match of the Day (@BBCMOTD) January 10, 2025
