Returning Neville thanks fans
10 Apr 2008 - 07:21:14
Manchester United captain Gary Neville thanked the club's fans for their rousing welcome he received after making his first appearance in over 12 months against AS Roma.
The 33-year-old defender received a standing ovation when he came on in the 1-0 quarter-final second leg victory at Old Trafford on Wednesday as an 81st minute substitute.
Neville had missed United's last 63 games with calf and ankle problems stretching back to March 2007.
"The fans have always been great to me and they were tonight," he told MUTV.
"Missing the end of last season was bad. I missed the Champions League quarters and semis, the Championship run-in and the FA Cup Final, so it's good to be back to help the team now.
"People kept asking me when I was coming back and it was a bit embarrassing. I'd try and give them a date and then it wouldn't materialise.
"But the fans have always supported me and gave me a good reception when I came on."
Speaking about the forthcoming Champions League semi-final dates with Barcelona, he added: "They're two unbelievable games to look forward to.
"Two clubs who play the game the right way. It'll be an unbelievable occasion to be a part of.
"Anyone who is a football fan will be tuning in."