Manchester United manager Louis van Gaal has leapt to the defence of Jonny Evans in the wake of a spitting accusation.
The Northern Ireland defender, 27, allegedly spat in the direction of Newcastle United striker Papiss Cisse in the first half of his side's eventual 1-0 win at St James' Park on Wednesday night.
After the match, van Gaal suggested that Evans is not the type of person who would commit such an act and indicated that it was a non-issue among the players.
"I didn't see that from the bench. It is too far to see a spitting moment so I cannot judge that," said the Dutchman.
"But I cannot imagine Jonny Evans doing that because he is a very modest person and couldn't do that. I cannot imagine it.
"I was not made aware of it and it wasn't a discussion the dressing room."
Last season, Hull City midfielder George Boyd was suspended for three matches after an alleged spitting incident involving Manchester City goalkeeper Joe Hart.
