Patrice Evra: Arsenal are just jealous of us

Manchester United defender Patrice Evra has taunted Arsenal by claiming jealousy got the better of them in Saturday's 0-0 draw at Old Trafford.

The French full-back was targeted for rough treatment by the visitors following claims that United's Champions League semi-final victory over the Gunners was like "men against babies".

Samir Nasri and Cesc Fabregas appeared to take a measure of revenge by fouling Evra in quick succession, prompting referee Mike Dean to book the latter.

But the 28-year-old said: "They did not understand my humour. I like teasing. During the game the referee came to tell me he was going to protect me and that I should not make mistakes.

"Maybe they are jealous because we are champions and qualified for the Champions League Final."

Meanwhile, Sir Alex Ferguson is poised to upset Newcastle and Middlesbrough by playing a weakened United side at Hull on Sunday as he prepares for the Champions League Final.

United leave for Rome shortly after the game and Ferguson is expected to make wholesale changes despite the possible knock-on effects for the Premier League relegation battle.