Fans think Sir Alex Ferguson was checking the Liverpool score on his phone during Crystal Palace game

Sir Alex Ferguson shared a laugh with actor James Nesbitt in the final minutes of Manchester United's 2-1 win over Crystal Palace – and fans think they know why.

United made it 13 home wins on the bounce as goals from Bruno Fernandes and Marcus Rashford sealed all three points, but it was a nail-biting end to the Premier League clash for many inside Old Trafford.

Erik ten Hag's men played the final 20 minutes with 10-men following the dismissal of Casemiro, who was sent off for putting his hands around Crystal Palace midfielder Will Hughes' throat.

Five minutes after Casemiro's sending off and Palace full-back Jeffrey Schlupp scored to reduce the deficit to one goal.

It was a tense ending to the game but former manager Sir Alex Ferguson remained one of the most relaxed people in the building.

Ferguson enjoyed Saturday's 3pm kick-off from the Old Trafford directors' box alongside actor, long-time friend and Manchester United fan Jimmy Nesbitt.

Cameras panned over to both Ferguson and Nesbitt on numerous occasions throughout and with 91 minutes played, the 81-year-old could be seen smiling after checking his phone.

The Scot, who enjoyed a trophy-laden 26 year spell at United, then shared what was on the phone to Nesbitt before the pair shared a chuckle.

Fans were quick to share their theories as to why Ferguson was having such a good time as Palace piled on the pressure.

One commented on the clip, saying: Sir Alex Ferguson smiling in the stands after seeing Liverpool losing on his phone," while another said: "Sir Alex Ferguson laughing at Liverpool... they’re done for."

A third wrote: "He laughed during the Manchester United vs Crystal Palace game when he saw the Liverpool result."

Sir Alex Ferguson checking Liverpool result and telling his friend! 🫣😅#mufc #liverpool #SirAlex pic.twitter.com/2frul8IasH

— UnitedNews 🔰 (@UnitedLatesNews) February 4, 2023

Erik ten Hag, meanwhile, was delighted with the way United picked up all three points against Patrick Vieira's side.

"I love many things," he said. "First of all, the quality of the game. In the first 70 minutes, we played a really good game on the pitch, in the possession, the formations and the passing security.

"The defensive transitions and the counter press were also brilliant and I think we dominated the game. I think we deserved the lead and especially the second goal was a great goal to see."

He added: ''I give the credit to the team, I am really happy with the progress we have made. I will be proud at the end of the season when we are lifting trophies. Till that moment, we have to work hard to improve everyday.''