Lee Westwood recalls 90s nights ‘on it’ with Man Utd icon Gary Neville and says ‘thank god social media wasn’t around’
LEE Westwood has reminded Gary Neville of their nights getting “on it” together in the 1990s after the Manchester United icon slammed the current squad’s behaviour.
Neville, 47, criticised United’s owners, manager and players for going on a “global tour” following their Champions League exit to Atletico Madrid.
After crashing out of Europe’s elite competition, interim boss Ralf Rangnick headed to Barbados to watch cricket, while Marcus Rashford flew to Dubai and met pro boxer Regis Prograis.
Co-owner Avram Glazer was also spotted queuing for a kebab at Sunday’s Grand Prix after going to Dubai to launch a new cricket competition.
Former world No1 golfer Westwood responded to Neville, reminding him that he wasn’t exactly an angel back in his day.
The 48-year-old said: “Late 90s. Living Room. Manchester. Wednesday night. You, Me, Darren Clarke. On it.
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“United were winning trophies. I was. Darren was.
“Professionalism isn’t United’s problem. Talent is. Or lack of it. Too many average players.
“Thank god social media wasn’t around back then eh!?”
Former defender Neville had hit out at his old club for their inability to read the room, especially following such an important defeat.
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The ex-England international wrote on Twitter: “I remember a time when United players, managers, executives wouldn’t be seen in their local Italian after a draw at home let alone getting knocked out of Europe.
“This last week we’ve seen a global tour of F1, concerts, cricket and UFC events.
“This lot are tone deaf!”
Match of the Day pundit Gary Lineker weighed in with his thoughts on the matter, pointing out that in the days before social media it was easier for United’s squad to keep a low profile.
He suggested, not necessarily aimed at Neville, that players used to get “hammered down the pub” without attracting attention.
Lineker wrote: “True, they were mostly busy getting hammered down the pub without everyone being on social media to spy on them.”
A scathing Neville finished off the debate by adding: “Of course, it’s not a problem watching other sports.
“However, do you think it’s a good look for the Owner – who hasn’t been to Manchester for an age – to be at the F1 and meeting the Dubai elite about their sporting ambitions with United’s current situation?”
The Red Devil’s premature exit from the FA Cup in January combined with this week’s international break means the club have no game until April 2.
And after receiving criticism for their on-pitch performances this campaign, matters off it are also subject to much disapproval.