Ander Herrera denies spitting on Manchester City badge during United comeback

The midfielder was filmed as he left the pitch at half-time

Herrera denies deliberately spitting on the badge (Getty)

Ander Herrera has denied accusations he deliberately spat on the Manchester City badge during Manchester United’s astonishing comeback win at the Etihad on Saturday.

The Spaniard made his first start since January having shaken off a thigh problem to complete 90 minutes – only the 7^th time he has done so all season.

United were 2-0 down at half-time but came back to win 3-2 in the second half with goals from Paul Pogba (twice) and Chris Smalling, but Herrera caused controversy as he spat on the floor as he went down the tunnel after the first 45 minutes.

In the wake of the incident, a United spokesman insisted Herrera did not realise he was spitting on the club’s crest as he was leaving the pitch.

“Ander has seen footage of the incident and is mortified at any suggestion his actions were deliberate,” they said.

“It was entirely accidental and there was no intent whatsoever.”

Herrera put on a fine display in central midfield and claimed after the match that the prospect of humiliation at the home of their neighbours drove United on to victory.

“We didn’t talk too much about tactics, just about our pride. Our pride on the pitch and that our fans were going to have a difficult night if we got beaten. We did it for them, and of course for us and our position, but overall for them.

When asked which of his team-mates had spoken up at half time, Herrera said: “Everyone.

“Of course, the oldest guys with the most experience – Ash [Young], Mike [Carrick] was in the dressing room – they have the power in their words, but everyone was talking.”

Manchester City have no plans to lodge a complaint against Herrera. It's understood the club are aware of the incident but do not intend to escalate it by making any formal representations to the Football Association.