ERIK TEN HAG stunned Paul Ince and baffled many viewers by handing the pundit a bottle of wine live on Sky Sports.
The Manchester United chief acted after Ince claimed the Red Devils showed him a “lack of respect” by not inviting him for a drink when he bossed Reading at Old Trafford in the FA Cup three months ago.
The former United and Liverpool midfielder looked “embarrassed” as a smiling Ten Hag made the gesture in a pre-match interview for Thursday night’s Premier League clash at Brighton.
“I owe him one,” said a beaming Ten Hag as Ince put his arm round the Dutchman and replied: “That’s so kind.”
The ex-England star suggested the pair should share it after United win the FA Cup – with only the final to come against neighbours City on June 3.
Some curious fans were keen to know why Ten Hag had made the gift to Ince.
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“Any context?” was a popular response.
But all observers seemed to agree that Ten Hag was a “class act”.
One said: “Literally have no choice but to Love ETH.”
And another, noticing the former Blackburn chief’s bashful reactions, posted: “Ahhh, Ince is so embarrassed, he doesn’t know where to look does he.”
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Ince had hit out following Reading’s 3-1 third-round loss on January 28.
He claimed he was “disappointed” he and his family were not asked in for a glass of wine or even a cuppa, whereas legendary ex-manager Alex Ferguson invited him to meet
He said: “Whoever it is, win, lose or draw, you say pop in for a drink.
“Whether it’s wine or tea it doesn’t really matter.
“None of their staff did that so that was disappointing.
“I couldn’t give a monkey’s but I just pride it on myself, as a manager, whether or not you get beaten, you say come in for a glass of wine.”
At the time Ten Hag was furious with Reading’s physical approach – especially a challenge from Andy Carroll that sidelined Christian Eriksen for three months.
He said: “This is a tackle – and the two tackles after it – that don’t belong on a pitch. Because there is a high risk of injuring your colleague.
“So, it’s worse and I’m left wondering about that.”
Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
