Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson has called on world football's governing bodies to do more to tackle racism in the game.

United defender Rio Ferdinand refused to wear a 'Kick it Out' shirt last weekend in protest at a perceived lack of action against racism by the authorities, a decision Ferguson said "embarrassed" him.

Rio and his brother Anton then released a joint statement urging change in the fight against racism and Ferguson believes that the Ferdinand brothers were right to do so.

"Rio and Anton did the right thing," Ferguson said. "But the race issue is bubbling along. It's not just completely gone away.

"The awareness is getting stronger and the PFA are doing their best to support it. But the FA, UEFA and FIFA have got to do more. That is without question.

"As far as Sunday's actual game (against Chelsea) itself I think we just need to carry on and concentrate on the football side."

Rio is reportedly ready to shake hands with Ashley Cole when United meet Chelsea on Sunday, despite the pair being embroiled in a race row earlier this year.