Richard Keys slams 'nepo baby' Darren Ferguson for refusing to play Ashley Young's son Tyler vs Everton

Richard Keys has slammed Peterborough boss Darren Ferguson after he elected against making history by bringing on Ashley Young's son Tyler against Everton on Thursday night.

Hours after sacking Sean Dyche, an Everton side managed by Leighton Baines and Seamus Coleman beat the League One side 2-0 in the FA Cup third round clash - with Beto and Iliman Ndiaye on target.

But the main talking point coming out of the game was the denial of a piece of FA Cup history. Ever since the draw was made, Everton full-back Young had stated just how desperate he was to line up against his son, 18-year-old midfielder Tyler.

In the entire 143-year history of the competition, a father and son have never played against one another but it looked like the rare feat could be on the cards.

The 39-year-old came off the bench in the 73rd minute but unfortunately for Tyler, he was an unused substitute at Goodison Park.

Ferguson made all five subs, with the introduction of striker Malik Mothersille his final change in the 88th when the score was 1-0.

The Scot, son of the legendary Sir Alex Ferguson has been widely criticised for not bringing on Tyler, with former Sky Sports presenter Keys laying into the 52-year-old and branding him a "nepo baby" - a negative term referring to someone benefiting from the success of their parents.

Ashley Young and his son Tyler after the FA Cup game. Image: Getty

Taking to X, formerly known as Twitter, he wrote: "There’s no defence for the decision Darren Ferguson made last night. None at all. We all wanted to witness that little piece of history. How sad a nepo baby let it pass."

Young shared an embrace with his son on the pitch and on Friday morning, made his feelings clear on X when he wrote: "GUTTED……".

A former Arsenal academy player, Tyler joined the club in the summer and has made just one appearance in the EFL trophy against Stevenage.

Ferguson defends decision

Speaking after the game, Ferguson explained his decision to not bring Young Jr off the bench and claimed that he was subjected to a comment fom one of Young's Everton teammates.

"It was very difficult to leave Tyler on the bench, I wanted him on, but I've got to get a forward on to get a goal," he said.

"One of their players had a pop at me which was bang out of order, I've got to do what is best for our team."