Real Madrid fans have praised Liverpool midfielder James Milner after his response to a challenge from Casemiro.
Milner was clattered in the first half by the Brazil international, prompting Andy Robertson to square up to him as Jurgen Klopp's staff rose to their feet.
Casemiro was booked for the challenge as calls were made for the player to be dismissed.
After the game, which ended 0-0 to see Madrid progress after a 3-1 aggregate victory, Milner was asked about the challenge and whether Casemiro should have been sent off.
“I just kicked the ball down the line and got nailed, but it’s all part of it,” he said to BT Sport in a blunt dismissal of the question.
Milner's refusal to complain about the situation, or find an excuse for the Reds after being dumped out of the European Cup, has seen the veteran earn plaudits across social media from Madrid fans.
@MadridXtra tweeted the quote with clapping emojis while scores of fans replied with messages of "respect" labelling the former England international as "classy" and "mature".
One Madrid supporter said: "Well played Milner you were a warrior last night."
While another added: "Thank you for being a good sport."
Milner was somewhat of a surprise inclusion in the Reds' starting line-up for the game
However, he produced an excellent performance against Madrid before being substituted after an hour, which was perhaps pre-planned by Klopp given the efforts in his display.
In the first half alone, Milner ran almost 7km to rack up a greater distance than any other player on the pitch.
He covered exactly 6.85km in the first 45 minutes, with the closest Madrid man to him in terms of distance Marco Asensio at 6.18km while no other opposing player reached more than 6km.
