Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson has revealed that he spoke to Ashley Young this week following recent criticism targeted at the winger for alleged diving in recent matches.

The 26-year-old has been accused of overreacting from challenges in order to win a penalty during the 2-0 victory over Queens Park Rangers and the 4-0 thumping of Young's former club Aston Villa.

"I have had a word with Ashley," said Ferguson. "He understands where we are coming from. Hopefully it makes a difference."

Despite Ferguson recently claiming that the England international could create a negative reputation for himself, the Scotsman has defended the winger.

"Last week, if the player doesn't bring Ashley down he is going to score," said Ferguson. "It was a clear goalscoring opportunity.

"He caught him and he did overdo the attempt to get a penalty. I am not sure he tried to get the penalty but he certainly went down quickly. But people have reacted because it is Manchester United.

"I watched Real Madrid and Bayern Munich the other night and it was absolutely ridiculous, players were diving and rolling about, nothing like what Young has been accused of. Then you see the other night in the Chelsea game, we are in an age where you expect it now."

The reigning English champions face Everton at Old Trafford this Sunday.