Rio Ferdinand has been branded 'a clown' by Jamie Carragher following the former Manchester United defender's criticism of Carragher's comments about the Africa Cup of Nations.

The ex-United star accused his Premier League rival of ignorance after Carragher suggested that success in AFCON would not contribute to Mohamed Salah's chances of winning the Ballon d'Or.

Salah, who is having an exceptional season under Arne Slot at Liverpool, has already contributed 42 goals as the Reds chase domestic and European glory.

There is growing speculation that the Egyptian could be named the world's best player, but Carragher controversially claimed that AFCON was not a major tournament, which he believes has hindered Salah's chances of recognition.

Jamie Carragher labels Rio Ferdinand a 'CLOWN' after the former Man United defender claimed his AFCON dismissal is an 'ignorant thought process'	Jamie Carragher labels Rio Ferdinand a 'CLOWN' after the former Man United defender claimed his Africa Cup of Nations dismissal is an 'ignorant thought process'	Jamie Carragher labels Rio Ferdinand 'a clown' in angry response to 'ignorant' remark

Ferdinand conceded that many might agree with Carragher's viewpoint, stating: "I think that comment is representative of the majority of people out there.

Lewis Skelly & pep...."

Carragher had found himself challenged by Micah Richards during the Super Sunday broadcast about the significance of AFCON as a major tournament.

Richards had said: "I'll just say, AFCON is a major tournament.

AFCON is a major tournament, just so you know,".

Nevertheless, Carragher retorted with: "Egypt are not going to win the World Cup are they?" to which Richards countered by highlighting the competitiveness of Salah and Mane for the title.

Amidst the exchange, Carragher was heard murmuring, "Oh my god" in reaction to Richards': "I'm just saying."

The storm around this debate prompted Carragher to clarify his position on social media, where he posted: "The point I was trying to make yesterday was that Mo Salah is at a disadvantage playing for Egypt in terms of him winning the Ballon d'Or.

"If Salah had an average season at LFC but won the AFCON and was MVP I don't think he would win the Ballon d'Or.

"Because I don't think AFCON carries the weight of other tournaments.

I don't think it's controversial at all really it's just a fact.

"I know Mane came 2nd a few years back after winning the tournament but that alone wouldn't have got him to that position, it was LFC being two games away from a quadruple that played a big role also.

"It's not disrespectful if I feel the WC/Euros/CP are better tournaments it's just my opinion when I watch them.

Saying it wasn't a major competition was clumsy but I think most people watching could understand the point I was trying to make.

"The face I pulled when Micah interjected was nothing to do with the merits of the tournament, I just knew as soon as he did what the reaction was going to be!
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