Manchester United captain Gary Neville says the game is becoming "too sensitive" after his celebrations for their derby win on Sunday sparked controversy.
Neville was accused of goading City supporters after Michael Owen's dramatic injury-time winner at Old Trafford. That followed Adebayor running the length of the field to celebrate in front of Arsenal fans after he had scored against his former club earlier this month.
"In football we have become too sensitive," Neville told the Daily Telegraph. "You celebrate a goal because you are winning a football match. Fans give you loads of stick. You give them a bit back. That is football."
Neville has been warned over his behaviour by the Football Association, which has charged Adebayor with improper conduct for his celebration.
Asked whether he understood what Adebayor did, Neville said: "You would have to ask him his motives but all I can say is that my motives are passion and winning. To be honest, we have lost games at the last minute. I have been to Man City and given goals away and you get abused for it. That is fine. It is part and parcel of the game."
