Manchester United

David Moyes concerned about Adnan Januzaj reputation

By Michael Penkman, Reporter | 03 January 2014

Manchester United boss David Moyes hopes that Adnan Januzaj doesn't pick up a reputation for diving after collecting three yellow cards for the same offence this season.

Manchester United manager David Moyes has said that he is concerned Adnan Januzaj has been unfairly labelled as a diver.

The 18-year-old picked up his third yellow card of the season for simulation late in Wednesday's 2-1 defeat at home to Tottenham Hotspur.

Moyes drew comparisons between the Belgian and former United star Cristiano Ronaldo, who was also targeted by referees for alleged diving.

"I am always the first one to come out and say I won't have players diving and I will deal with it," the Scottish coach told reporters. "In the same breath, I am going to protect them when I think it is wrong. I thought it was wrong the other night.

"Adnan is such a talented footballer, I have no doubt he will go on to be one of the best players to be playing in this country for a long time, and probably even at Manchester United.

"I remember when Ronaldo came over, a lot of people said the same thing about him. Not for a minute would I even try and compare him to Ronaldo because of how good he is. But the boy is only 18. He will get better. He will learn. He will understand the game more."

Moyes has previously expressed his belief that referees are not doing enough to protect Januzaj.