Premier League deny demoting referee Chris Foy after Sir Alex Ferguson blast

Premier League chiefs have refuted claims that referee Chris Foy has been dropped following Manchester United's defeat to Tottenham Hotspur.

The match official was at the centre of criticism from United boss Sir Alex Ferguson, who claimed that Foy ignored two penalty appeals and should have awarded more than four minutes' extra time in the Red Devils' 3-2 loss at Old Trafford on Saturday.

Premier League spokesman Phil Dorward is quoted in the Daily Star as saying: "There is absolutely no truth in suggestions Chris has been demoted or punished in some way. The fact is it is his turn to officiate at a League game this weekend.

"Chris has refereed more Premier League games than most this season and there is a rota system in place. We have been delighted with the standard of Chris's performances. He's having a good season."

Meanwhile, four Premier League teams have been in Champions League action this week, with United and Chelsea securing respective victories in their groups.