Gary Neville was caught making his feelings clear about Leeds fans in the build-up to their Premier League return as the Sky Sports broadcast cut to him live in the studio early.
The former Manchester United defender spoke highly of Leeds’ chances of remaining in the top flight before the game, and Leeds United enjoyed the best of the first half against the Toffees, with full-backs Jayden Bogle and Gabriel Gudmundsson causing issues for Everton’s defensive line.
With a packed Elland Road cheering their every move, Leeds could have taken the lead in the opening exchanges when Joel Piroe forced Jordan Pickford into an early save.
However, moments before the game, Neville was caught on a live microphone as the cameras cut back to the studio unexpectedly, as he made a comment about the Leeds fans inside Elland Road.
Leeds United fans during game v Bristol City FC.
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Gary Neville suffers embarrassing Leeds United moment
Neville has enjoyed a turbulent relationship with Leeds over the years, to put it lightly, thanks to his long association with their arch-rivals, Manchester United.
Appearing on Sky Sports in the build-up to Leeds’ game against Everton, the live feed cut back to Neville sooner than expected as he was describing his feelings towards the Leeds fans.
Neville said: “They’re the one group of fans I wouldn’t want to go anywhere near.”
He then realised that his comment was audible, bursting into laughter and asking, “Did you hear that?” and adding, “Do I have to apologise? They’re the one group of fans I wouldn’t want to go anywhere near.”
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To which co-host David Jones quipped: “I don’t think they want you anywhere near them either, so it’s fine.”
Thankfully for the Sky Sports man, his comments did not veer into the obscene; otherwise, his apology may have had to be more forthcoming.
Gary Neville speaks in the build-up to Manchester United v Arsenal - Premier League
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Elland Road crowd is raucous for Premier League opener
Few Leeds fans will be surprised by Neville’s comments, who took great pleasure in baiting the defender throughout his Manchester United career.
The Elland Road crowd was at its vociferous best for Leeds’ season opener as they performed a rousing rendition of Marching on Together before kick-off as they welcomed the Whites back to the Premier League.
The Leeds faithful then played an active part in the first half, urging Leeds on as they started brightly against the Toffees.
However, there was one notable exception to this, as Jack Harrison received a hostile reception when he came out to warm up for the first time.