Manchester United striker Wout Weghorst responded to criticism of his pre-match antics before a 7-0 loss to Liverpool on Sunday.
The already struggling Weghorst made the ill-fated choice to touch the famous “This is Anfield” sign before the ruthless 7-0 loss to Liverpool.
The Anfield sign is in the players’ tunnel at Liverpool’s stadium. It is customary for players of the home club to touch the logo before making their way onto the field of play. However, that is not applicable to away players. Surprisingly, a footage emerged showing Weghorst touching the sign.
The Dutch international striker, who is on loan at United from Burnley until the end of the current campaign, received critics from the Red Devil fans on social media.
A statement from Weghorst was released on his social media accounts explaining what happened. It read, “normally I never react on media topics. But for this one, it’s work it because you amazing United fans are important to me. So I just want to clarify the video that is doing the rounds”.
“From the National team, I know that Virgil always touches that sign. I went to stop him from touching it to try and wind him up before the game. As a child I always support FC Twente. And as a proud player now for Man United, my dedication to this incredible club can never be questioned”.
“Sunday was a terrible day for all of us. We are putting everything into making it right in the next weeks. We will bounce back together and achieve our aims this season!”
Virgil van Dijk alongside Cody Gakpo and Trent Alexander Arnold moved to touch the sign ahead of walking out onto the pitch ahead of the game. But many wondered why Weghorst had appeared to move to do the same.
The Burnley loanee statement also addressed specualtion that he had been a Liverpool fan with comments several years ago suggesting that he had admired the Merseyside club – whom he faced with their great rivals on Sunday.
Back in 2020, Weghorst said, “I always founf Liverpool very special. I still get goosebumps from ‘You’ll Never Walk Alone’. There are other great English clubs today and I always liked Milan because so many Dutch played there”.