Manchester United have played down reports that David Beckham was accidentally struck on the head by a boot kicked by manager Sir Alex Ferguson.

According to a report in The Sun, Beckham required stitches after Ferguson raged at his team following their 2-0 FA Cup defeat by Arsenal at Old Trafford.

Asked about the incident, a Manchester United spokesman refused to elaborate, saying: ‘Whatever happens in the dressing room remains private.’

However, Beckham arrived at United’s training ground this morning with what looked to be a cut above his left eye.

The Sun reported that England captain Beckham was left with a cut above one of his eyes that required two stitches.