Aheed Abrar
Manchester United striker Wout Weghorst touched the ‘This Is Anfield’ sign to put off Liverpool defender Virgil van Dijk
Manchester United striker Wout Weghorst appeared to touch the ‘This is Anfield’ sign against Liverpool as he was trying to put off fellow compatriot Virgil van Dijk.
The Red Devils visited Merseyside on Sunday (5 March) in the Premier League. In the end, it was a day to forget for the Old Trafford side as Jurgen Klopp’s team got a historic 7-0 victory over us.
Recently, footage emerged of the on-loan Burnley striker, who started the match, touching the iconic sign as the two teams walked onto the pitch. Subsequently, the striker has faced criticism for his actions.
However, taking to social media (h/t Manchester Evening News), Weghorst explained his actions. The Holland international was looking to stop Van Dijk from touching the sign.
“From the national team I know that Virgil always touches that sign and I went to stop him touching it to try and wind him up before the game.”
The 30-year-old and the Liverpool defender know each other well. They play together for the Netherlands and featured for their national side in the 2022 World Cup in Qatar.
It is a clear case of social media taking things out of context. It is disappointing that the former Wolfsburg striker has had to come out and defend himself for such a trial matter.
Weghorst made his way to Manchester in January. United were in need of a number nine and the cut-short Holland international’s loan spell with Besiktas and acquired his services for the rest of the season.
Anthony Martial is the only other natural striker in the squad at the moment. However, the France international has been unavailable for most of the campaign due to injury issues.
As a result, in recent weeks, the former Wolfsburg star has featured heavily for the Red Devils. While the 30-year-old leaves a lot to be desired in front of goal, his work ethic cannot be questioned.
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Losing the North West derby, especially in such a bad way, is devastating for fans and players alike. Hopefully, we will be able to bounce back and get back on the course Erik ten Hag has had us on for most of the season.
