Gary Neville was caught in an on-air blunder during the opening Monday Night Football of the new season, as he made an unguarded comment about Leeds United fans. The former Manchester United and England defender was speaking on Sky Sports moments before Leeds hosted Everton at Elland Road.
Unaware that the broadcast had resumed from an advertisement break, Neville was heard saying, 'They [Leeds] are the one group of fans I wouldn't want to go anywhere near.' Presenter David Jones quickly grabbed Neville's arm, but the comment had already aired. Neville then laughed and asked, 'Did you hear that?' and repeated the line, to which Jones replied, 'I don't think they want you anywhere near them!'
Neville's comment reflects his long-standing rivalry with Leeds. He has previously stated, 'I'd have never have played for [Manchester] City, Liverpool or Leeds. Not in a million years.' Despite this, he acknowledged the atmosphere at Elland Road makes it a difficult place for visiting players.
On the pitch, Leeds secured a 1-0 victory over Everton, with new signing Lukas Nmecha scoring a late penalty after James Tarkowski handled the ball in the area. Nmecha had been on the pitch for less than ten minutes before coolly converting the spot-kick.
