Rio Ferdinand has laughed off the incident in which he was struck in the face by a coin as he celebrated Manchester United’s winning goal in their 3-2 success at Manchester City.

The English centre-back was left with blood pouring from his face after being hit by an object apparently thrown from the crowd in the aftermath of Robin van Persie’s injury-time winner for United.

Writing on Twitter, he said on Sunday: “what a result,3points! Sweet! Whoever threw that coin,what a shot! Can’t believe it was a copper 2p….could have at least been a 1 pound coin!”

A City spokeswoman said the club were reviewing CCTV footage of the incident with police and that they would pursue the matter “vigorously”.

A fan wearing City colours also had to be restrained by home goalkeeper Joe Hart after walking onto the pitch and making his way towards Ferdinand after the incident.

City had not lost a home game in the Premier League for two years and their defeat meant United have established a six-point lead at the top of the table.