Panucci claims the United players whipped up an anti-Italian feeling following the first leg of their Champions League clash last season.
Ferguson said: “I can’t believe a player of Panucci’s experience was affected by that. He has played for Real Madrid and AC Milan and has played for Italy 60 or so times. I can’t believe that was a reason for our win last season.
“Players like him and Totti are very experienced – but I suppose it’s a good story, isn’t it?”
