The 32: Neymar 'has damaged his reputation by diving and play-acting'
Trevor Sinclair told ‘The 32’ that Neymar ‘has damaged his reputation’ at the World Cup by diving – but he’s still a superstar.
The former England midfielder spoke about Brazil’s star man on Yahoo’s World Cup show after their quarter final exit to Belgium.
PSG striker Neymar came in for criticism once again after Brazil’s defeat, as he appeared to simulate fouls which enraged fans.
The PSG star goes to ground again during his country’s exit. (AFP）
Brazil’s striker had two penalty appeals waved away by Serbian referee Milorad Mazic during Friday’s knockout match.
Sinclair said: ‘He’s a superstar and so, so talented. People don’t always realise it.
‘His balance, his speed and his invention in his brain – he’s been doing it for years since playing on the streets in Brazil.
‘He’s damaged himself a little bit with his diving and his theatrics, but you can’t take it away from him that he’s a superstar and I love him.’
Five-time champions and favourites Brazil were dumped out the World Cup by Belgium thanks to an own goal and a first half rocket from Kevin De Bruyne.
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Sinclair added: ‘I’m pleased Brazil are out though as they’re a strong team.
‘You could see when they were chasing the game (against Belgium) that they wanted to get the ball down and get on with it, and he’s down on the floor and the physio has to come on, and you’re right, it did seem to slow their play up.
‘But in full flow, what he’s got in the bag is ridiculous, and I love watching him play.’
