Saturday, February 23, 2008
Nani gets showboating warning
Manchester United winger Nani has revealed that a stern word from manager Sir Alex Ferguson was enough to persuade him not to repeat his on-field juggling antics.
The 21-year-old provoked the fury of several Arsenal players, as well as Ferguson, when he indulged in some `kick-ups' towards the end of last weekend's 4-0 FA Cup thrashing of the Gunners at Old Trafford.
Nani insists he was not being disrespectful and was merely trying to entertain - but has also vowed not to repeat the trick.
'In Portugal I have done this many times but it is only because it is an entertaining spectacle and not because I disrespect my rivals,' he said.
'I am a professional and am always very respectful with all the opposing players, but I do appreciate now that it may have looked bad.
'After the match Ferguson spoke to me and demanded that I do not repeat it in order to avoid problems.
'Obviously, I agreed. I always follow the orders of my coach and am not interested in causing controversy.'
The 21-year-old provoked the fury of several Arsenal players, as well as Ferguson, when he indulged in some `kick-ups' towards the end of last weekend's 4-0 FA Cup thrashing of the Gunners at Old Trafford.
Nani insists he was not being disrespectful and was merely trying to entertain - but has also vowed not to repeat the trick.
'In Portugal I have done this many times but it is only because it is an entertaining spectacle and not because I disrespect my rivals,' he said.
'I am a professional and am always very respectful with all the opposing players, but I do appreciate now that it may have looked bad.
'After the match Ferguson spoke to me and demanded that I do not repeat it in order to avoid problems.
'Obviously, I agreed. I always follow the orders of my coach and am not interested in causing controversy.'