Players criticised for love in after tepid Manchester derby

LONDON – Manchester United and Manchester City players came under fire for their amiable hugs and handshakes after playing out an entirely forgettable 0-0 English Premier League derby draw at Old Trafford on April 6.

In a match between teams limping through disappointing seasons, City failed to leapfrog Chelsea in their bid for Champions League qualification and remained fifth in the table, while United languish in 13th place. Newcastle United could drop City to sixth, should they beat Leicester City in a match that took place after press time on April 7.

Pundits said the friendly post-game scenes were an indication of a lack of passion.

“I think the congratulations and love-in that I’m watching says both teams are happy with a 0-0,” former United defender Gary Neville said on Sky Sports.

“The best Man City and Man United teams would be very disappointed with the way they’ve approached the end of that game. It looks like it’s Sunday afternoon and they’re going to go for a roast dinner together now.”

Former United midfielder and skipper Roy Keane agreed.

“They get interviewed after as if a draw isn’t too bad,” he said. “A draw doesn’t get you anywhere fast. This is not enough.”

But United manager Ruben Amorim shrugged off the comments with a smile.

“I understand that Gary Neville is critical about everything,” he said.

“And then I understand that in the moment, we are doing the worst (United) season in history. Manchester City, who won everything in the past this season, are (also) struggling. So we are not in the best moments to give the best spectacle to every fan.

“And then when we are not fighting for the big things, of course, it’s different... I understand the critical aspect of the players that played in this game