Manchester United hero Rio Ferdinand applauded the Hampden atmosphere yesterday as he watched the Betfred Cup final among Celtic fans.

His pal Jermain Defoe stepped off the bench as his side were narrowly beaten 1-0 by their rivals in a game they perhaps should have won.

Gers had big chances through Alfredo Morelos and Defoe spurned a decent one in the second-half.

But Ferdinand - who played with the hitman with England - was happy to take in the atmosphere at the national stadium.

Posting on social media the former defender shared a short clip as he stood among Celtic supporters who were celebrating having taken the lead.

He wrote: "The atmosphere at Hampden Park is 🔥👏🏽 Currently 1-0 @CelticFC... 10 mins left & @IAmJermainDefoe is now ON the pitch! 👀".

The footage racked up thousands of likes and shares with delighted Hoops fans praising Ferdinand for watching from the 'Celtic end'.