Provocation against Cristiano Ronaldo? Everton attacker Townsend explains CR7 cheers

Everton’s attacker Andros Townsend has emphasized that his fake Ronaldo cheering during the Premier League match against Manchester United (1-1) was a sign of respect for the Portuguese superstar.

“It wasn’t an imitation, it was a sign of respect for a player who influenced my career,” said the 30-year-old BT Sport and made it clear that his cheering at Old Trafford was in no way a provocation.

“I spent hours on the training pitch and in the video room analyzing his free kicks and step-overs and his devotion to football,” continued Townsend.

The 13-time England international is currently in a remarkable early form and has been directly involved in five goals in seven Premier League games (three goals, two assists).

Townsend crowned his run on Saturday with his goal to equalize 1: 1 against the Red Devils, which ultimately secured a point for the Toffees.