Manchester United star Hannibal Mejbri responded to claims he mocked Liverpool rival Mo Salah during the international break.
The United youngster imitated Salah's goal celebration during Tunisia’s 3-1 victory over Egypt in a friendly on Tuesday night.
The friendly saw Tunisia secure an early two-goal lead courtesy of Aïssa Laïdouni and a Hamdi Fathi own goal before Egypt pulled a goal back through Omar Kamal.
However, Hamza Rafia sealed Tunisia's win deep into injury time, with the goal sparking wild celebrations. And amid the fanfare Hannibal joined Rafia in mimicking the yoga pose Egypt and Liverpool star Salah sometimes adopts after scoring.
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On occasion, Salah celebrates by raising his left leg to his right knee and clasping his hands together in prayer. The yoga pose, which is known as 'the tree', signifies balance and grounding.
Salah played the full game on Tuesday night but struggled to make an impact, while Hannibal came off the bench with 10 minutes remaining to win his 26th cap for Tunisia.
After the game, the 20-year-old’s celebration was widely perceived to be a gesture that mocked Salah.
However, Hannibal took to TikTik to suggest it had in fact been a sign of respect.
The United player posted a picture of the celebration, to which someone commented “Mo Salah’s biggest fans”.
Hannibal responded to the comment by saying: “Inspiration for us all.”
Hannibal made 41 appearances in all competitions last season while on loan at Birmingham, while he featured prominently for United in pre-season this summer.
Moreover, the Tunisian was an unused substitute in the club’s 3-1 defeat away at Arsenal.
However, the player’s opportunities at Old Trafford appear limited with Casemiro, Christian Eriksen, Mason Mount and Sofyan Amrabat ahead of him in the pecking order.
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Topics: Manchester United, Mohamed Salah, Egypt, Premier League, Liverpool
Chris Byfield