Wout Weghorst almost breaks down in tears after scoring for Man Utd following fan backlash for touching Anfield sign
WOUT WEGHORST appeared momentarily overcome with emotion as he celebrated scoring following his difficult week.
The Manchester United striker angered fans by touching the Anfield sign before Sunday’s 7-0 loss at Liverpool – but won many over by his emotional reaction to sealing a 4-1 defeat of Real Betis.
The loan recruit ran to the corner and was almost crying as he went down on his knees and roared with joy.
Supporters and team-mates knew what the moment meant to him as he battles to earn a permanent switch from Burnley.
One fan posted: “Weghorst burst into tears after that goal. He deserves it, he has work so hard for this team.”
Another said: “The relief from the big Dutchman was palpable.”
Similar comments flooded in like: “You have to love the guys passion” and “My man was starving of goals, he really need that goal for confidence”.
But it’s only Weghorst’s second goal for United and it came after his pre-match decision to touch the “This is Anfield” sign angered many Red Devils’ supporters.
And his explanation online didn’t help much as it was treated sceptically by many.
Weghorst claimed he was just attempting to “wind up” international team-mate Virgil van Dijk by stopping the Liverpool defender from getting his own fingers on the famous sign.
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The 30-year-old, however, moved back in favour somewhat with a controversial Instagram post hours before Thursday’s Europa League last-16 first leg.
Some fans believe the footage of fans including many holding flares, came from an anti-Glazer protest.
Supporters on social media responded with comments such as: “He really is working overtime to win the fanbase back.”
And many reckon his emotional outburst at rounding off victory showed his dedication.
One wrote: “Tears of Joy is allowed. It proves he loves this club. Wout Weghorst is a red.”
There were a few doubters, though.
One posted: “Fake tears to win over deluded manyoo fans.”
And another was just as harsh: “Get Weghorst out of the club. Why tf is my man crying with tears after scoring the 4th goal in a Europa League trashing? Get this drama queen out.”