‘I sense a witchhunt’ - Man United supporters on Twitter perplexed by star’s recent criticism

Despite a hugely disappointing result in the Manchester derby last weekend, the resident Red Devils in the Transfer Tavern were in fine voice last night after United’s 2-1 victory over West Bromwich Albion.

Manchester United put their derby day woes behind them last week as they recorded back to back victories over Bournemouth and West Brom in the Premier League. Romelu Luaku came in for plenty of cirictism after United’s 40-game unbeaten record at Old Trafford came to an end against their local-rivals, due to both his mistake for City’s second goal and his inability to convert a golden opportunity to equalise with less than ten minutes to play.

The Belgian striker has begun answering his strongest critics with a goal in each of United’s last two fixtures since the Manchester derby, but his reaction to finding the back of the net has puzzled football fans and pundits around the world.

After scoring a fine header against Bournemouth, Lukaku slowly walked away looking despondent without expressing any sign of joy or relief, and against West Brom he reacted in a very similar fashion following another well-executed header.

Of course, it must be considered that Lukaku used to play for West Brom and may simply have been showing respect to his former club, but the manner in which he looked directly at the United supporters behind the goal suggests his reaction has a deeper meaning.

Plenty of supporters have offered explanations as to why Lukaku is choosing not to celebrate his goals at the moment, and the topic has certainly stimulated an interesting dialogue on Twitter.

However, the majority of United supporters are confused by the level of attention Lukaku’s reaction is generating, and they believe their centre-forward has unjustly become a target for criticism within the British media.

Here’s what the United supporters had to say about Lukaku on Twitter…

does the postman celebrate when he delivers a letter? Man is just doing his job

— KING (@truenene) December 17, 2017

https://twitter.com/lfc1234512345/status/942449199924334592

Lukaku gets bemoaned for not celebrating. Pogba/Lingard get slated for dabbing or dancing. I give up.

— Ben. (@BenGrace_) December 17, 2017

He played for West Brom. He showed respect. It’s just another chapter in sky’s anti lukaku story. 15 goals this season. And lots more to celebrate before the end of the season

— Matt Roberts (@24MattRoberts) December 17, 2017

https://twitter.com/DarrenC_81/status/942680213326123009

Let's talk about lukaku.

Complain he doesn't score in big games
Complain he doesn't have good link up
Complain he's linking up but not scoring
Complain he's scoring but not celebrating

I sense a witchunt

— kenna (@kennagq) December 17, 2017

https://twitter.com/Moe_Mufc/status/942413090024501249

Fantastic header Lukaku, no celebrating again, sending a message

— Jack O🔰 (@ginger_mops) December 17, 2017

https://twitter.com/JoelLangham/status/942405007760117761

Happy with the fact Lukaku’s not celebrating his recent goals….I think it’s the right mentality considering he has failed to perform against tougher oppositions.

— Sarcastic Frank (@franklinto) December 17, 2017