By Chris O'Brien
January 24 2006

Manchester United captain Gary Neville could be on the receiving end of disciplinary action after his passionate celebrations in front of the Liverpool away end on the weekend. The Greater Manchester Police have reported the 30-year-old skipper to the Football Association.

Are they trying to suck the passion out of football?

Greater Manchester Police have written to the Football Association to complain about Gary Neville's passionate celebrations as Rio Ferdinand headed home a last minute winner to secure a 1-0 victory over arch-rivals Liverpool.

Neville ran the length of the pitch to kiss the MUFC badge, the club he supporters, in front of the travelling Scousers as he punched the air in delight. The FA may now take action against the England international, but will wait on the content of the referee's report after the Red Devils narrowly closed the gap on run-away leaders Chelsea to 14 points.

Some are even blaming Neville's actions for crowd trouble that occurred outside Old Trafford after the game. Reports of skirmishes and clashes between the two sets of supporters have been made, whilst the 30-year-old's celebrations have been described as "provocative".

"Chief Superintendent Andy Holt has written a letter expressing his concern. No criminal investigation is taking place at this stage." read a statement from the Greater Manchester Police after the game.

Such accusations are completely ridiculous. Liverpool fans, as per usual, had been handing the United captain mountains of abuse throughout the game, and the player, who is MUFC to the heart, was merely showing delight and passion to the club he loves in what was a fantastic moment to support United. It's time the 'powers that be' realised that football is not just about money and big business, but pride and passion.

Meanwhile, the Stretford End will always sing: "Gary Neville is a Red, he hates Scousers!"