Manchester United goalkeeper David De Gea was reportedly spat at during the halftime ruck against Liverpool on Saturday. The Sun says United keeper De Gea was spat at as he walked to the Old Trafford dressing room at half-time.

Players from both sides had to be parted by stewards as the explosive confrontation threatened to escalate into a full-on brawl.

Police became involved in an effort to calm tensions and keep the feuding sides apart following an explosive first 45 minutes, which saw Luis Suarez refuse to shake the hand of Patrice Evra before kick-off.

It is unclear who was responsible for the spitting but a source said: "De Gea was making his way to the tunnel and was clearly shocked to be spat at.

"Obviously the players reacted angrily and both teams became involved, before stewards managed to quieten it down."