Gary Neville insists Marcus Rashford has no need to justify himself over winning penalty

GARY NEVILLE says Marcus Rashford has no need to justify the penalty he earned for Manchester United against Swansea.

United skipper Wayne Rooney controversially gave his side the lead from the spot after a Rashford dive.

Swansea were understandably furious at that penalty award in first half injury time.

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They reckoned the England youngster Rashford took a tumble after pushing the ball one way and then moved the other to initiate contact with keeper Lubasz Fabianski, who was pulling out of the challenge.

But former United ace Neville tweeted: "He Doesn't need to justify himself for winning his team a penalty !"

United are fighting to secure a place in the Champions League next season, with their hopes riding on whether they can lift the Europa League or secure a top four finish.

They maintained fifth spot - one point behind neighbours City - with a disappointing 1-1 draw against the relegation-threatened Swans.

Fans questioned Neville's' stance over the spot kick.

Tweeted Marc Brophy: "Would you honestly say the same if it was a non English player against united?"

Neville replied: "I have a very consistent position on this. Relax."

Putting the penalty incident aside, United's first-leg of their Europa League semi-final away to Celta Vigo on Thursday is the start of a crippling run where they have to play a game every three days.

They go into the trip to Spain facing a major injury crisis in defence with Chris Smalling, Phil Jones, Marcos Rojo and now Eric Bailly all on the treatment table.

And on Sunday they then have to take on top four rivals Arsenal knowing defeat would leave them struggling to beat Liverpool and Manchester City to secure a to four spot.