Roberto Firmino has hit back at Roy Keane after the Manchester United legend criticised players for being too friendly ahead of the fierce clash with Liverpool at the weekend.
United battled well to earn a point against Liverpool at Old Trafford on Sunday afternoon but Keane was not impressed by the pre-match formalities.
Speaking on Sky Sports at the weekend Keane said he was 'disgusted' as opposing players hugged and chatted in the tunnel ahead of kick-off.
“I’m disgusted with the players. You’re going to war, they’re hugging and kissing,” Keane said.
“Don’t even look at the opposition. You’re going into battle against them.
“Chat to them after the game, or don’t even chat to them after the game.”
United shot-stopper David de Gea could be seen chatting with opposing goalkeeper Alisson Becker in the Old Trafford tunnel, while Brazilian quartet Fred, Andreas Pereria, Fabinho and Firmino were spotted joking moments ahead of kick-off.
When asked about the scenes after the match Liverpool forward Firmino insisted it was 'normal' and that all is forgotten once the match is under way.
“I don’t want to create controversy with anyone,” Firmino told ESPN Brasil .
“I find it quite normal before the game to greet each other, ask how they are doing.
“That’s all. Nothing more than that.
"But on the pitch, they aren’t friends, each one defends his club to the best of his ability.
“Then the rivalry increases on the pitch.”
