PSG vs Manchester United: Rio Ferdinand delivers VAR penalty verdict after over-the-top celebration

The former United defender concedes, despite his allegiance, that the French side were harshly treated

Rio Ferdinand insists Manchester United did not deserve their penalty to eliminate Paris Saint-Germain in the Champions League.

Marcus Rashford dispatched the spot kick to put United into the quarter-finals on away goals, 3-3 on aggregate.

The former United star contends that Presnel Kimpembe was jumping with his arms in a natural position, but only after calming himself following an emotional celebration off air.

"Come on! Yes, get out. Character, that's what it's about," Ferdinand said on BT Sport. "The young lads coming in the team and playing.

Sitting back and just defending the whole time, it don't happen here. Yes Ole, what a pen."

Ferdinand then elaborated on the incident, admitting, despite his allegiance, that PSG were unfortunate.

"The way you guys are seeing this as referees," Ferdinand said in BT Sport's analysis. "People who are not on the panel with VAR, if you are blocking a shot and coming out as a defender, you have to have your hands behind your back to make sure it's not a penalty.

"I don't understand that, which player can come out and have balance with hands behind their back or immediately down by their side.

"When you stand, you stand like this (arms slight away from body), you don't stand like this (hands straight down) - this isn't natural.

United celebrate their winner (Getty) (Getty Images)

"Your natural position is like this. When you jump his hands aren't up here, they're here. I don't get it, I don't think it's handball. I love it that it is handball."

United next face Arsenal at the Emirates on Sunday, but will be eagerly awaiting the draw for the quarter-finals next week.