Players blasted for 'love-in' after limp Manchester derby

Manchester United and Manchester City players came under fire for their amiable hugs and handshakes after playing out an entirely forgettable 0-0 English Premier League derby draw at Old Trafford on April 6.

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LONDON - Manchester United and Manchester City players came under fire for their amiable hugs and handshakes after playing out an entirely forgettable 0-0 English Premier League derby draw at Old Trafford on April 6.

In a match between teams limping through disappointing seasons, City failed to leapfrog Chelsea in their bid for Champions League qualification and remained fifth in the table, while United languish in 13th place. Newcastle United could drop City to sixth, should they beat Leicester City in a match that took place after press time on April 7.

Pundits said the friendly post-game scenes were an indication of a lack of passion.

"I think the congratulations and love-in that I'm watching says both teams are happy with a 0-0," former United defender Gary Neville said on Sky Sports.

"The best Man City and Man United teams would be very disappointed with the way they've approached the end of that game. It looks like it's Sunday afternoon and they're going to go for a roast dinner together now."