Roy Keane gives verdict on Man United's 'embarrassing' loss to Liverpool

Liverpool scored six times in the second half in a 7-0 hammering.
Roy Keane gives verdict on Man United's 'embarrassing' loss to Liverpool

By PA Sport Staff

Manchester United’s players will be “ashamed” and “embarrassed” by their performance in their record 7-0 Premier League defeat to Liverpool, according to Roy Keane.

The Reds scored six times after the break to condemn United to their heaviest defeat since 1931.

Cody Gakpo broke the deadlock late in the first half before two goals apiece from Darwin Nunez and Mohamed Salah, who became Liverpool’s record Premier League scorer, another one for Gakpo and a Roberto Firmino effort earned Liverpool their biggest ever win over their bitter rivals.

Former United skipper Keane told Sky Sports: “It’s obviously a very, very bad day, shocking day, really. The goal just before half-time and the second half.

“United, the senior players were… use all the words, embarrassing, didn’t show any leadership skills, particularly the senior players. The goals they gave away were shocking.

“Tough, tough day for United. Thank God, I’ve never been part of a team that’s been beaten by that much playing for Manchester United.

“The players will be embarrassed, they’ll no doubt be ashamed of their performance. Particularly the second half when the going got tough, they just went missing. To give up that many goals…”

Bruno Fernandes (left) in action
Gary Neville was less than impressed by Bruno Fernandes’ (left) display (Peter Byrne/PA).

Former United defender Gary Neville said: “The second half has been an absolute disgrace, a shambles, epitomised by no-one more than the captain, Bruno Fernandes, who I think has been embarrassing at times in this game.

“But I have to say it’s not their usual performance, it’s not their usual spirit, it’s not their usual form and he (manager Erik Ten Hag) will deal with it, I’m sure, very quickly like he’s dealt with other difficult situations this season.”

He added: “It can swallow you up here at Anfield. I’ve experienced it myself, but never to this level. You might lose 2-0, you might lose 2-1, you might lose 3-1 – you don’t lose 7-0.

“You do not get beat 7-0 at Anfield if you’re a Manchester United team or player.”

In contrast, former Liverpool player and manager Graeme Souness was hugely impressed by the Reds’ second-half display.

He said: “Liverpool were sensational in the second half. I said at half-time, treat this as a 0-0, you’ve got to win the second half, but I did not expect that.

“After the second or third goal, Manchester United were just second to everything after that, and the result doesn’t flatter Liverpool.

“They [United] just didn’t compete in the second half and Liverpool just ran right over them.”

more Roy Keane articles

The Masters - Final Round Poll: Who is Ireland's greatest sportsperson of the 21st century?
Ruben Amorim urges Roy Keane and other critics to enjoy Bruno Fernandes Ruben Amorim urges Roy Keane and other critics to enjoy Bruno Fernandes
I’m embarrassed for him – Roy Keane slates Kyle Walker for Manchester derby dive I’m embarrassed for him – Roy Keane slates Kyle Walker for Manchester derby dive

More in this section

Belgium will be ‘shaking in boots’ ahead of Wales game in Cardiff – Sorba Thomas Belgium will be ‘shaking in boots’ ahead of Wales game in Cardiff – Sorba Thomas
Heimir Hallgrimsson seeks answers after disappointing draw Heimir Hallgrimsson seeks answers after disappointing draw
England booed off after shock defeat to Senegal England booed off after shock defeat to Senegal

Sponsored Content

Digital advertising in focus at Irish Examiner’s Lunch & Learn event  Digital advertising in focus at Irish Examiner’s Lunch & Learn event 
Experience a burst of culture with Cork Midsummer Festival  Experience a burst of culture with Cork Midsummer Festival 
How to get involved in Bike Week 2025 How to get involved in Bike Week 2025
Us Cookie Policy and Conditions

© Examiner Echo Group Limited

Add Echolive.ie to your home screen - easy access to Cork news, views, sport and more